Phil's Background

Growing up in the South Hams the outdoor life was firmly embedded. Phil started working for his father's (Andy Thomas) gardening and landscaping business at a young age, soon becoming a frequent employee in school holidays. After obtaining A levels this became the start of his career, continuing to 'prune, trim and plant' in the local area, the majority of which was in Salcombe.

After acquiring his A levels, Phil started to work as a trainee Tree Surgeon part-time for Pittman Trees (pittmantrees.co.uk) alongside attending Bicton College and obtaining his relevant Tree Surgery and climbing qualifications. His working relationship with Pittman Trees is still thriving today. 

Four years later an opportunity arose for Phil to take his skillset international by travelling to Australia to live and work for 6 months, further broadening his experience and knowledge. Whilst he was there he continued his work as an arborist (Tree surgeon) for Evergreen Trees and Gardens in the 'inner city' Syndey and then one of the most prestiguous tree care companies in Northern Sydney: Arbor Pride pty Ltd. (http://arborpride.com.au/).

On returning from Australia, he decided to progress and further his knowledge by attending the specialist Arboricultural College of Merrist Wood, Guildford, Surrey. Here he obtained his ABC Awards level 4 Certificate and followed on another year to obtain his Level 4 Diploma in Arboriculture. Furthermore he also obtained the 'Lantra Proffessional Tree Inspections' qualification. As well as furthering his knowledge, Phil continues to broaden his skill as a tree climber by continued and specialist training over the years, learning and perfecting the newest, safest and most efficient methods and techniques. This is reflected throughout the team.

Today, Phil provides an expert service with a strong working relationship with a number of successful tree companies, both local and spanning across the South Hams and Dartmoor. As well as contacts in the garden maintenance, landscaping, building, architecture, design and landscape companies (including the family business still!). Phil hopes this clientel portfolio will continue to grow with the intention of working with other companies as well as home and property owners.