Espalier help needed

Finally got the posts up to do the espalier conference pears but I’m not sure if I’m doing it right. Unfortunately left it a little late getting the posts and first wire in and some of the branches are stiffening up.

Is there a way to prune the branches to encourage more growth? Should i snip out the centre trunk to encourage side branches?
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Basically Snorky, you keep 3 shoots....one vertical and 2 side branches. The aim is for the vertical to, next year, produce 3 shoots again for next tier.
You can balance side growths by lowering or raising....as I suggested a few weeks back. If one branch is more vigorous than the other then lower it and vice verse.
The aim is to tie down horizontally near summer’s end. You are looking to create first year’s tier then one a year thereafter

 

Thanks @Verdun My brain is pretty overloaded with other nonsense going on around here that I've completely forgotten your advice previously! Even this morning I forgot my own mobile number

Ah ok - so things are o.k. for this year I guess. The main stem just doesn't even look like its going to grow any further - they seem pretty well "chopped off" at the top.

 

Just watch how side branches grow.....you can post picture in mid summer if you want further advice