Torquay's 'Agatha Christie Oak' to be removed after it collapses

The ‘Agatha Christie Oak’ tree at Barton Cricket club in Torquay is to be removed after collapsing overnight.

Half of the historic tree had totally collapsed, with the whole tree needing to be removed for safety reasons.

Torbay council said earlier today: “It is with great sadness that we have to report that the veteran English Oak tree at Barton Cricket Club, known locally as ‘The Agatha Christie Oak’, has collapsed overnight. Unfortunately due to a large part of the tree, over 50%, falling over and the remaining section being diseased with much decay visible it will now have to be completely removed for public safety reasons.

“Working with Barton Cricket Club over the years we have done our very best to preserve this historical tree as it was identified that Agatha Christie used to sit under it and watch and score her favourite summer sport of cricket.

“Many tree experts have admired this tree, provided technical advice and we have carried out restoration works to the canopy, removed the tarmac around the base of the tree and created a woodland environment to help improve it’s health. We have also protected the tree with a fence to reduce cars parking near by.

“The tree has been suffering for years with two wood-rooting fungi which forms on the bark or exposed wood. These decay fungi are among the most damaging of diseases, particularly in older trees. The decay renders the tree unsafe and we have been managing this decline but unfortunately overnight the tree failed.

“We will now be working with the cricket club to secure a replacement tree for future generations to enjoy,”