Sycamore tree removal. As part of our five year plan to reduce the number of Sycamore trees, we will be removing the Sycamore trees in front field (the one next to the drive). Toxins in sycamore seeds and saplings have been shown to cause atypical myopathy, a fatal illness affecting horses of all ages. The mortality for sycamore poisoning can be as high as 75-90%. The disease results in muscle damage and particularly affects the muscles that enable the horse to stand and breathe. This is why we are working hard to reduce the number of sycamore trees onsite. This may look dramatic when it is first done but we believe this is a vital part of maintaining a high standard of horse welfare.