The National Trust is aiming to save one of England’s rarest ancient lichens from a fallen veteran oak tree in the Lake District.

Taking place in Borrowdale, the lichen will be transferred to dozens of nearby trees.

The lungwort lichen has become increasingly rare in England since the 18th century as a result of air pollution and habitat loss.

The transfer is the largest ever attempt made by the National Trust in partnership with the British Lichen Society, Cumbria Lichen & Bryophyte Group and Plantlife.

Almost three-square metres were moved and transplanted on dozens of different trees across Borrowdale.

There were over 100 translocations.

It is thought that the tree, where the lichen was living, is between 200-300 years old before storms blew it over earlier this year.

Furthermore, the National Trust believe that the fallen tree held one of the single largest communities of Lobaria pulmonaria anywhere in England.

Maurice Pankhurst, Woodland Ranger at the National Trust says: “The communities of lichens and bryophytes in Borrowdale is one of the finest in northern Europe.

“Just as an art gallery would protect their collection of fine and rare paintings, it’s essential for us to protect these rare species.”