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Hornbeam - with distinctive diamond shape pattern of bark.

How does bark cope with growth of the trunk? 

Bark is like our skin, expanding as we grow.
Each year a new ring of wood (xylem) is laid down within the trunk and each of the branches. This carries water to all parts of the tree. As a result, the tree's girth increases. The outer layer of bark must therefore expand. 
The type of bark varies between species. They have interesting different ways of expanding. Hornbeam is among the species who have bark that concertinas out as the tree grows - like the wrapping sleeves for fruit, with interlocking diamonds. More info soon! I will post some drawings of the different types of bark and how they accommodate growth.