This tree is a perfect example of nature’s tenacity for life.

Blown over in a great storm, the oak clung onto life with its last remaining roots and flourished despite its unusual position.

Now its branches all grow from one side of the trunk, reaching upwards as if each one was a small tree.

It is a popular meeting point for friends, resting spot for walkers and picnic spot for families.

Its rough bark has been worn smooth over years by the hundreds of children who have used its branches as a climbing frame.

Vote for our tree! The Fallen Tree in Richmond Park is on the shortlist for England’s Tree of the Year 2019. If the ancient oak wins, it will be eligible for a Tree Care award of £1000 and may go on to represent the UK in the European Tree of the Year competition.

According to its description on the Woodland Trust website, this tree is a perfect example of nature’s tenacity for life. Blown over in a great storm, the oak clung onto life with its last remaining roots and flourished despite its unusual position. Now its branches all grow from one side of the trunk, reaching upwards as if each one was a small tree.

It is a popular meeting point for friends, resting spot for walkers and picnic spot for families. Its rough bark has been worn smooth over years by the hundreds of children who have used its branches as a climbing frame.

People are encouraged to vote for their favourite trees in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland as we reveal the shortlists in the Tree of the Year contest. Once there is a winning tree from each country’s public vote, a panel of experts will select one of the four trees to go forward to represent the UK in the European Tree of the Year competition.

By voting for your tree of the year, you will also be entered into the Woodland Trust’s Tree of the Year prize draw – the winner will receive a £100 Sainsbury’s voucher. Voting is open until noon on 27 September 2019 and you can only vote for one tree in each country.

The winning tree in each country will be eligible for a Tree Care award of £1,000, whilst selected runners-up will be awarded £500, subject to eligibility. The award can be used to arrange a health check from an arboriculturalist, provide interpretation or educational materials or simply just hold a community celebratory event in honour of the tree.