THE Martindale Yew, in the grounds of St Martin’s Church near Ullswater, has been shortlisted by the Woodland Trust in its Tree of the Year contest. The yew, which is estimated to be 800-years-old is pitted against nine others from across England.

The charity, with support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, is now inviting the public to vote for their favourite tree before October 12, with the winning tree going forward to the European Tree of the Year competition in early 2016.

Beccy Speight, Woodland Trust Chief Executive, said: “This contest reminds us how trees have been an integral part of this country’s history and play an important role in our lives today. We still need better protection for individual trees across the UK and we hope everyone who votes will also support our campaign to create a register for all our Trees of National Special Interest.”

To see all the shortlists and vote for your favourite tree visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/treeoftheyear