re-juvenating an old apple tree

Recently moved in and have inherited an established but ill kempt apple tree in the front of the house.
It's 25ft high and about as wide with a number of cross and overgrown limbs. I would like to bring it back into shape and continue its cropping. The tree seems to have a natural crown at about 15-18ft.
The trouble is I haven't a clue how when or what to remove without ruining it.
Any help would be appreciated.

ps is it possible to upload a photo into the post and if so how is it done.

 

Hi, yes, you can upload photos into your posts,see
http://www.gardenerscorner.co.uk/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=9;t=000007
and also
http://www.gardenerscorner.co.uk/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=ubb_code_page
Scroll down to 'displaying images'.
Most image hosting facilities should work, but I've had problems with Village photos.
If you click on 'full reply form' you will find a quick list of punctuation, format, image insert
etc underneath.
As for the tree it' s best to wait until Autumn. It will hopefully have borne some fruit by then so you can see if it's a 'tip-bearer' or not. This BBC site explains it well:-
http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/basics/techniques/pruning_pruneappletrees.shtml
The basic object is to remove inner crossing branches leaving an open bowl shape. My neighbour's very old trees were done in Sept. 05, not much fruit last year but a tremendous amount of healthy new growth. I'm expecting some good apples this year! [They are right up against my boundary].
Good luck with the pictures.

 

Thanks, Liz.
I understand the idea of a bowl shape, but by how much do you think a mature limb may be reduced?
I'll try to upload a photo of it tomorrow.

D