The Woodland Trust Scotland is inviting nominations for trees with amazing stories to tell for this year’s Scottish Tree of the Year competition.
The contest, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, is open to any living tree in Scotland. Any individual, group or organisation can enter through the Woodland Trust’s website until Sunday 12 July at Tree of the Year.
Last year’s winner was Lady’s Tree, a 100-year-old Scots pine at the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Loch of Lowes Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve, which has been home to nesting ospreys for decades.
Carol Evans, director of the Woodland Trust Scotland, said: “Scotland has one of the largest populations of old trees in Europe and plenty that have a remarkable story to tell, whether they are associated with a historical event or character or are a local landmark.
“We want to draw attention to the wealth of cultural and natural heritage that is reflected by our amazing trees, and also remind people they need better care and protection so that future generations can enjoy them.”
Clara Govier, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We’re delighted to support the Woodland Trust in their search for the nation’s best loved trees. Tree of the Year is a unique celebration of the links between people and trees.
“The competition links entire communities to the amazing trees that surround them, and reinforces the importance of giving them better protection. “
An independent panel of experts will choose a shortlist of six finalists and the winner will then be decided by public vote later in the year.
Scotland’s Tree of the Year will join entries from England, Wales and for the first time Northern Ireland in representing their nation in the European Tree of the Year competition, organised by the Environmental Partnership Association. The winning trees from previous years are excluded from nomination.
For more information see Tree of the Year.