| Survey data | |
|---|---|
| Surveyed by: Alistair Taylor | Surveyed on: 17th October 2011 |
| Number of trees: 1 | |
| Girth: 2.66m (measured at 1.5m) | |
| Tree form: Maiden | |
| Dead or alive: Alive | |
| Standing/fallen: Upright | |
| Access: Private - visible from public access (permission not required to view) | |
This tree's story
These large elm trees stand on the earthen ramparts of Tonge castle. They are present on maps from 1938 and probably on maps of 1909 but not in 1898. The moat and earthen ramparts on which they stand are thought to date from the 13/14 century though there was previously a Norman motte and bailey and before that a saxon earthwork built by Hengist and known as Thwangcaster. The moat sides are steep and dangerous and the trees are best enjoyed from the country park area on the far side of the mill although there is a public footpath that runs along the side of the moat. The land was owned by the Wickes family since the 1870’s who built the victorian mill and millpond and they presumably planted the trees. A descendent still lives in the adjacent modern bungalow.
Growing on the tree
- Ivy
Additional comments
The trees occupy an elevated position overlooking Tonge Mill pond. There are 10 large trees all of similar size and a number of smaller trees and suckers. They appear healthy. I measured what appeared to be the largest I could get to. An expert who visited about 10 years ago said they are ‘kentish Elms’ but I can find nothing about such a subgroup and any differences must be very subtle!!! Evidently one of the trees was injected by the expert to try and prevent its demise, since they all seem healthy it is hard to tell if this was successful!!!