He said: “At the National Trust, we care hugely about the trees we look after. “In line with recommended tree management practice, we have pollarded the willows along a stretch of the Thames near Buscot. “This traditional practice involves cutting back riverbank willows to the height of two to three metres and is carried out on a regular cycle of approximately ten years. Riverside trees in Buscot. Picture: Ed Nix “Whilst it can look severe, pollarding encourages regrowth and prolongs the life of the trees. “It doesn’t affect the tree’s root system and it preserves veteran features in the trunk for insects to inhabit – and hollows in which birds such as woodpeckers can nest.