Tree finally removed after wreaking havoc in Storm Floris

A four-day nightmare for a Kilwinning dad finally came to an end on Friday when a tree which caused major damage to his home was finally removed by his landlord after Storm Floris wreaked havoc.

But now Kilwinning man Michael Kirkum will have to find the money to fund repairs as the dramatic incident is deemed an “Act of God” although he is seeking compensation.

A tree on the footpath at the back of his house crashed into the property, causing major structural damage and part of it was still standing until landowners Riverside Scotland had it all removed on Friday.

It was in part thanks to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which contacted the housing firm to highlight the extent of the damage.

The tree smashed into Michael’s house in Glenapp Place, Pennyburn, when he was out on Monday afternoon.

It caused a hole in the roof and tiles have been damaged, with roughcasting also needing fixed, along with guttering.

Michael has to personally cover the cost in the meantime. However, he is seeking compensation.

Michael said: “The tree was a danger to those living in the area as it could have fallen at any time. It was a danger to public safety. The area around the public footpath and to be made safe and I had four sleepless nights.

“I was worried that the tree was still standing although weakened and it could have crashed back into my house and wrecked it.

“I couldn’t get into the garden at the back of the house until the tree was taken away on Friday although it took a few phone calls to people at Riverside before they acted.

“I took part of the tree off my roof and from my garden but had to do that myself and that’s not good with a heart condition.

“But now I can finally get a night’s sleep.”

Added Michael: “I am hopeful of getting the roof fixed but dreading the cost. It might end up being about £2,000 or near enough, so I will have to find that money.

“I have to prove that Riverside were negligent in the management of the tree and that would allow me to get compensation but it will be a long process.”

A spokesperson for Riverside Scotland said: “We’re sorry for the disruption caused to Mr Kirkum after part of a tree fell onto his home and damaged his roof, unfortunately caused by Storm Floris.

“We visited Mr Kirkum’s home to remove the loose branches and debris on Thursday and the felled tree is being removed today (Friday).

“We’re continuing to look into this, both Riverside Scotland and Mr Kirkum have engaged insurers on this matter.”