Conifer dying?

I have a 30 ft 30 yr old conifer which has started to go brown at the bottom. At first I thought it was wind damage but now its spreading up the tree and is going round it. i have planted a honey suckle last year but it cant be that surely, as it has only just started to clamber up the tree. is it age? Should I phone a tree surgeon for diagnosis? How do I know if I can stop the deterioration or whether its too late. It has great sentimental value as well as covering the neighbours garden view.

 

Any chance of a pic compostmaker?

 

Hi compost maker. Take a look at this thread for a brief guide at tree ill health. See if it helps any. I can't see it being a problem caused by your honeysuckle at all. http://www.gardenerscorner.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=16441.