Learn More About Our Team – Rob Dalton

Name, role, and site nickname?

Rob Dalton.

I’m a chainsaw artist and work with Chris and his team as ground crew supporting the tree surgeons. I also take on the hedge work.

Previous employment/cap badge (if applicable)?

Parachute Regiment and Cheshire Constabulary.

How did you end up in tree work (wrong career turn or destiny)?

In 2018 I was diagnosed with PTSD and was unable to remain in my previous job. I made a number of changes to my life one being that I attended a chainsaw course which I thoroughly enjoyed. 

I discovered that I had an aptitude for the artistic side of chainsaw work but still love to be out with the team and being involved with arboriculture work.

First day on the job – confidence or instant regret?

Confidence I’d say. I really enjoy it, being outdoors and working with a good bunch of lads.

Favourite tree to work on?

Cedar. If we have to remove a cedar I can put it to good use turning it into a wood sculpture.

Worst tree to work on?

Leylandii. No more needs to be said!

Climbing, MEWP, or ground work?

For me it’s the ground work, doing the best I can to assist the lads up in the trees. I don’t think I’m agile enough to do what they can do.

Preferred weapon – stump grinder, axe, back or top handle?

As my role in the team is ground work, back handle and chipper.

Weirdest thing you’ve found in a garden or tree?

We often find various pieces of metal, nails, screws gate hinges. We occasionally find concrete too. Years ago, people apparently would pour concrete into tree cavities to try and save the tree, a practice that I think has long since stopped. It’s not great when your chainsaw finds it before you see it!

One thing people always get wrong about tree surgeons?

That it’s simply just cutting trees down. There’s a lot of skill, planning, safety awareness and teamwork involved.

Tea or coffee – and how many a day?

Start the day with posh coffee then tea throughout the day. No sugar!

Best thing about working at Frodsham Tree Solutions?

It sounds a bit corny but they are really a great team with a proper work ethic. 

Describe the team in three words.

Skilled, hardworking, professional.

Any top tips?

Look after your kit and don’t assume there isn’t metal in a tree!

Outside of Frodsham Tree Solutions I run Daltonwood, creating bespoke wood sculptures. 

Together, the skills within both businesses allow us to offer a comprehensive service, including tree assessment, tree surgery, stump grinding, hedge work and wood sculpture.

Whether a client needs a tree removed, a hedge reduced, or would like timber transformed into a unique piece of artwork, we have the expertise to help