Caroline Hammond and her son were paying one of their usual visits to Upminster Park on July 10 when the incident happened.
The branch fell just minutes after their arrival, whilst Caroline was watching from the top of the park as her seven-year-old enjoyed playing football in the sun.
She said: “I was on the phone to my mum actually and then I heard this massive crackle.
“I didn’t know what it was and then I stood round and this massive branch just came crashing down.”
The falling branch evoked thoughts of the tragic incident in Southend when seven-year-old Dagenham girl Leonna Ruka was killed in a park by a falling tree.
Caroline said: “It was a bit of a shock to start with and then, obviously it’s horrible to think about what happened in Southend, but it does just make you worry now about where to go.
“You do start thinking ‘what if I was a little bit further?’ or ‘what if he (my son) was playing under there, what would have happened?’
“I try not to get myself into that sort of state but you do start thinking that, especially when your kid was so close.”
That same day in north London, Harrow Council had warned park goers to avoid sitting under trees due to sudden branch dropping.
The phenomenon occurs when branches drop from trees following a spell of dry weather or a sudden downpour.
Caroline said: “I know we shouldn’t go around being terrified of trees but I think it is something that we need to be mindful of, especially a tree like that. It was quite a big one, it looked quite old.
“My initial thought was just to come away from it and in future just to – it sounds really dramatic – but just to not be anywhere near big trees like that.
“It is quite shaded at that top bit so we do often go to that part, but I won’t be anymore.
“Or, if I do, I’ll be talking to the kids about making sure that they don’t climb trees and just basically being mindful and looking – basically just assessing the situation.”
The incident was reported to Havering Council and local councillors.
A spokesperson for the council said: “We are aware of the fallen tree by the Brookdale Close entrance to Upminster Park and are taking action to address the situation.
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“Our team are assessing the tree to determine if any additional works are required beyond the removal of the fallen branch.
“We already carry out surveys of trees and respond to customer reports, with a focus on areas with the highest footfall to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community.
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to maintain the safety and enjoyment of our parks.”
