Dying sorbus/rowan

I have a dying sorbus...I think. We had a lime shortened last summer by a about 2ft as one limb was a little top heavy. Since last summer all these vertical slits appeared up and down the bark. This year it looked as if it was trying so hard to break bud a leaf up but there is minimal leaves and they are already bronzed red and curling up. Whole thing still looks dormant. Did have a cotoneaster about 30ft from it that appeared to do same thing and I cut that down although there is still a 2ft stump I need to get rid off. Wondered if it was fireblight?? Only other thing in garden not doing well is a hydrangea. has anyone seen this on their trees? Many thanks.