Calls for Cork 'landmark' tree to be kept local after it came crashing down during Storm Ellen

There has been widespread dismay in Cork at the news that Mahon's iconic Monkey Puzzle tree came crashing down as a result of the violent gusts last night.

Shortly before 11:30pm last night, a video emerged on social media of the 'landmark' tree knocked down as Storm Ellen ravaged Cork. 

The tree smashed through a fence and its top landed just inches from the westbound lane of the N40.

There have now been calls for the wood from the tree to be used to create a sculpture and for that to be kept local.

Labour Local Area Rep Peter Horgan has said the fallen Monkey Puzzle tree must stay local if it is to be used for craft work and should benefit the local amenities.

"It's desperately poignant to see this tree, an iconic marker for the area, downed by nature," said Mr Horgan.

"I understand that the particular wood is highly sought after by woodworkers and crafter workers in this field. 

"If it is to be used for that, which I hope it will, if salvaging the restoration is not an option, then it should stay local. 

"Placing works in local schools, nursing homes and even on the walkway are all places to consider," he continued. 

Independent Councillor Kieran McCarthy said he has received much correspondence by constituents expressing their sadness over the fallen Monkey Puzzle tree.

"It might be only a tree but it was a familiar landmark for those living in the area.

"Many of those who have got in contact with me have said former generations pointed it out to them and it has been the subject of many discussions over many years.

"Local people cared about it and were very proud of it.

"Access to it in modern times is difficult with overgrown and now former building development mounds.

"But the tree in past times connected to when locals played and walked in green fields alongside the Douglas estuary," he said.

Mr McCarthy said he has written to the Council Director of Operations, David Joyce, asking him to contact the owner of Jacob's Island and the tree and suggested that timber seat memorials or other appropriate memorials could be created from the fallen tree.

That way, "the important story of the tree can be retold to our generation and future generations", Mr McCarthy said.

The Monkey Puzzle tree was planted by William H Crawford in his gardens at 'Lakelands' (Mahon Peninsula) in approximately 1845, according to Cork Trees Trust, an independent volunteer group working to protect, care, and plant trees in Cork.