I began working with trees in 1986 as a forestry contractor, obtaining extensive experience in the practical aspects of forestry practice and woodland management. In 1989, I moved to arboriculture as an apprentice tree climber with Lindsey Tree Services, a prominent tree surgery company in the northeast of England. This provided valuable experience in all aspects of arboriculture including carrying out tree inspections, specifying tree works and running a tree contracting business. In 1996, I joined The Borough of Poole as an Arboricultural Officer, dealing with all aspects of municipal tree management. During my time, I gained a comprehensive insight into the social, legal and safety issues associated with the management of urban trees in the planning system. I left Poole in 2002 and worked with Barrell Tree Consultancy for 16 years as an Associate Director and private consultant advising on a wide range of tree matters. This gave me the opportunity to become an Arboricultural Association (AA) Registered Consultant and Chartered Forester.
In 2009, I was invited by the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) to sit on their Professional Standards Committee and attend meetings where decision making and connecting with other members of the profession is required at the highest level.
I have given lectures in Australia, America and Canada about tree protection on development sites and frequently speak to audiences around the UK about trees.