Cut to Here?

I'm not a fruit tree expert so this is only my opinion. With apologies if it may sound critical.

So far, so good, but nowhere near enough. I would probably remove at least 50% of what's left. I can see what needs doing but can't really explain it. I would remove a lot of the branches in the middle of the tree down to thick trunks. The branches I'm referring to are about half the diameter of the forking branch (not swearing ) at the upper right hand side of the picture.

Then I all the very thin branches/twigs and a lot of the thicker branches (appear to be about a good half inch diameter) that are crossing each other or close to each other.

Pity you're not nearby as it would be so easy to point out what needs doing. It needs a lot of drastic work. With a bit of luck there may be a member that's not too far from you. Some personal instruction, plus a lunch and a bevvy , would be the best thing.

Good luck.

 

@Irmemac some of the ladder work may not be necessary. If you're removing some of the bigger inner branches there would be room to climb into the tree and be supported by the bigger branches around you (usually some nice firm footing and some bigger branches to lean back against) but should really be wearing a harness and safety rope. Not quite s precariously as this - although he has a rope and harness.

 

Sadly, not any more . He died of a brain tumour. He was such a nice man with a young family.