Thanks for reply Kilter. I don't think anything hit the tree, it has trees either side of it (Spruce and a Beech) and a hedge in front of it, so the part that is peeling is fairly protected. The peeling is only on one side and doesn't surround the tree. I suspect that because of its height, it may have bent from the winds, causing the bark to crack.The tree is close to the roadside, which is worrying if it does die. I was hoping there would be something I could paint on it to help repair it. Will try googling tree diagnostics