Arb Ambassadors: Tree talks roadshow

My name is Darren Allen, and I am the Tree Inspector & Tree Team Operational Manager for South Staffordshire District Council.

I was recently invited to give a talk to the Wombourne Historical and Scientific Society, which as you will read below went extremely well.

I will be delivering another talk to Perton parish council in south Staffordshire on the 9th of June 2025 and I propose to take my “Tree Talks Road show” across the south Staffordshire district this summer and autumn.

This was an idea I have had for a while when conversing with the public the knowledge set is that people know trees are good, but they don’t necessarily know why and fully understand why and what trees do for us. This prompted the idea to put together a talk to explain tree biology, the role of trees in combating climate change, their importance in our Landscapes and tree Law. As an ambassador for the arboricultural association, I have also included in my talks the role that the Arboricultural Association plays in tree care from membership and training through to approved contractor status. The literature and merchandise go down very well so hopefully there will be some new members signing up to continue their knowledge in trees.

My aim is that after these events there will be more people with a greater knowledge and understanding of tree care within our community.

Darren Allen, the Council’s Tree Inspector and Tree Team Operational Manager, recently delivered an insightful talk to the Wombourne Historical and Scientific Society at the invitation of Dr Simon Keeling.

Held in the welcoming setting of the Bead Room in Wombourne, the talk attracted an audience of around 50 society members.

Darren shared his expertise on a range of tree-related topics, including tree biology, the role of trees in combating climate change, their importance in our landscapes, and key aspects of tree law.

The talk was warmly received by attendees, sparking engaging discussions and a renewed appreciation for the trees in our environment. So much so, that Darren has already been invited back to deliver a follow-up session in the future.

It’s fantastic to see our staff sharing their knowledge and building connections with local community groups — well done, Darren!