The tree looks dead and half rotten so it could well be woodpeckers after grubs in it
It looks like Deer damage, but they are only supposed to be able to reach up to 1.8 metres. Perhaps it had a leg-up?
Maybe the deer didn't know the rules
Nah - I NEVER go to the South of England - SW, NW, NE sometimes - but never the Soft South!
I notice you have quite a few caps John.