A review published by the Journal of Ecology claims almost all ash trees in Europe will be wiped out because of the fungal disease as well as a beetle called the emerald ash borer.

The GAA have established The Ash Society in the hope of tackling a growing crisis although GAA director of games development Pat Daly has already acknowledged there may come a time when ash hurleys may no longer be used in the game.

Long-standing hurley-maker O’Connor is fully aware the wood is decreasing in supply and accepts it could have drastic repercussions for craftsmen like himself.