Beyond The Bark Ltd

22/09/2026

23/08/2026

We were recently asked to reinspect the oak being used for the ‘Have-a-Go’ climbing at this year’s APF Show.

The sonic tomogram produced some interesting results, but most importantly, the findings supported the tree being suitable for use during the show. 🌳

We’re also excited to have our own stand at APF this year and, with no Arb Show in 2026, we’re expecting it could be a busy one!

Who’s coming? Come and say hello!👋

05/08/2026

New venues. New locations. Same high standards.
We go the extra mile for our candidates….. sometimes even air miles ✈️🌳
With demand for our Internal Tree Inspection Programme continuing to grow, we’re travelling the country to find the next homes for our course. If you’d like to see the course delivered in your area, get in touch!

28/07/2026

An interesting inspection this week…

A Robinia pseudoacacia located outside a school entrance with Rigidoporus ulmarius present at the base of the main stem.

This is not a combination we encounter regularly, so we’d be interested to hear from others:

Have you come across Rigidoporus ulmarius on Robinia before, and what has your experience been? 🧐🔍🌳

16/07/2026

Like many local residents, we were saddened to see the removal of a large mature tree with significant cultural value.

Our understanding is that the tree was removed following concerns regarding possible Phytophthora infection. Earlier in the year, our consultant carried out a lateral flow test (Pocket Diagnostic from Sorbus International), which returned a negative result.

Trees are complex, and decisions about their future should be based on appropriate investigation, evidence and consideration of all available management options.

One important consideration when seeking tree advice is independence. A tree surgeon's role is to carry out tree work, whereas an independent arboricultural consultant's role is to assess, advise and help guide decisions.

You wouldn't normally ask a barber whether you need a haircut, so when it comes to significant trees, it is worth seeking advice from someone who has no involvement in carrying out any potential work.

If you have questions about the condition, management or future of a tree, we are always happy to provide independent advice.

Do you think tree owners are aware of the difference between tree surgery and independent arboricultural consultancy?

05/07/2026

A great couple of days spent with Terry Crick at Apex Arb on the final ever Lantra Preparation of Mortgage (Homebuyer) Reports course.

Although Phil was already qualified to provide mortgage and homebuyer tree reports, it was a great opportunity to refresh existing knowledge, discuss real-world case studies and gain a few new perspectives before introducing the service through Beyond the Bark.

Whilst this marks the end of the Lantra qualification, it's great to see Terry updating the course and continuing to deliver it as a Lantra Customised Provision.

Thanks again, Terry, for another excellent course!

04/06/2026

Three months ago, I joined Beyond the Bark Ltd as Business Support Administrator, and this week we took the opportunity to step back, reflect on the journey so far, and look at where the business is heading next.

We spent the afternoon at the beautiful for my three-month probation review. It was a great opportunity to discuss what has gone well, where improvements can be made, and how my role is developing as the company continues to grow.

Alongside the day-to-day administration, training course support, accounts and customer enquiries, I will now be taking a more active role in developing our online presence, helping to showcase the work we do and the people behind the business.

It has been a busy and rewarding first three months, and I am looking forward to supporting the next stage of Beyond the Bark's growth.

A huge thank you to Phil for the support, patience and opportunities so far. Exciting times ahead.

21/05/2026

An interesting day at the Institute of Chartered Foresters Conference at the

Great to hear Terry Crick speak on innovation in arboriculture and the appropriate use of Internal Tree Inspection equipment. The talk reinforced the importance of understanding both the capabilities and limitations of inspection tools, ensuring that equipment is used to support proportionate, evidence-based tree management decisions rather than relying on outputs in isolation.

Also inspiring to listen to Callum Throw discussing photogrammetry, Gaussian splats and the move from traditional 2D outputs towards more immersive 3D visualisation within arboriculture.

As always, it was great to spend time with the team at and discuss ongoing developments within the sector. One particularly interesting conversation focused on combining Trichoderma soil improvement strategies with TreeMotion sensors to potentially quantify physiological response and monitor changes over time using measurable data.

07/05/2026

We're back!! 🌳🔍🧐

Westonbirt Arboretum - Forestry England

27/04/2026

We have expanded and rebranded, Professor Shearbomb Ltd is now Beyond the Bark Ltd.

Our focus remains on helping clients make clear, evidence-based decisions about important trees, like this majestic London plane, through structured inspections of their internal condition.

We are also delighted to have Catrin on board as our Business Support Administrator. After six years as office manager at a local tree surgery company, she has joined us at an exciting time and is helping the consultancy move forward as the administrative demands increase with the courses back in full swing.