Did this timber exist for an old water tank only?

[haukin]

Hi, I've been flooring the loft of my 1950s semi recently, and there's a timber which runs between 2 struts which looks like it was originally added to build a shelf for a water tank which no longer exists.

I was advised I could safely cut this timber and make an easier path into the main section of the loft from the hatch, but I'm now second guessing this and wondering whether I should replace the timber.

Please can anyone advise?

See a picture of the timber in question attached, it's the one that runs between notches taken out of the struts, and has been cut away on the left.

 

[Alastairreid]

That's holding up the purlin.

 

[haukin]

I may not have been clear. I'm questioning the use of the timber I've highlighted in red here which has been cut, and whether it needs to be replaced since it has been cut.

I think it was only added to create the shelf on the right which used likely used to exist for a water tank.

 

[catlad]

As Alistair has already said it is to give support to your roof structure.
If you still have the off cut I would try it for size, if you can no longer get it in then you know things are on the move!

 

[haukin]

Thanks all, there's been no movement but I've replaced the timber.