Time to nominate Northern Ireland’s Tree of the Year!

The competition is open to any loved and living tree in the UK; with England, Scotland, Wales and – for the first time – Northern Ireland each having its own contest.  Any individual, group or organisation can enter through the Woodland Trust’s website until Sunday 12 July.

Jill Butler, Woodland Trust ancient tree specialist, said: “We’re looking for a tree with a remarkable story, historical reference, or one which is a local landmark.

“The UK has one of the largest populations of old trees in Europe and plenty have a story to tell. We aim to draw attention to our amazing trees, and to remind people that they need better care and protection.” 

Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust in Northern Ireland, added: “Northern Ireland certainly has its share of remarkable trees.  They’re part of our culture, heritage and landscape; and deserve to be recognised and celebrated.

“The Trust in England, Scotland and Wales each took part in last year’s competition.  This year, however, is a first for Northern Ireland.  This is a wonderful opportunity for local individuals and entire communities to nominate, and share stories of, their best-loved trees.  It’s a chance to give Northern Ireland’s precious trees the attention they deserve.”

An independent panel of experts in each of the four countries will choose a shortlist from the entries submitted and the winners will then be decided by public vote later in the year.

Each country’s individual Tree of the Year will go on to represent the nation in the European Tree of the Year competition, organised by the Environmental Partnership Association.

The charity hopes to improve the chances of a UK tree being crowned European Tree of the Year, after Sherwood Forest’s Major Oak, last year’s top UK contender, only finished in sixth place in the European finale. Nearly 185,000 people voted in the European competition, with another 20,000 taking part in the UK contests.

Patrick Cregg continued: “Northern Ireland has many potential contenders, from the infamous Crom Yews of Fermanagh to the Dark Hedges: an enchanting avenue of beech trees near Ballymoney, which featured in TV series Game of Thrones.  And I’m quite certain that there are many more unsung heroes, with fabulous stories just waiting to be told.” 

For more information about the competition and to submit your nomination visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/treeoftheyear