A HOLM oak tree behind the library in Soisy Gardens has been shortlisted for the Woodland Trust’s Urban Tree of the Year competition and the man who submitted the tree to the national competition is asking for people to get their votes in now so the tree gets the recognition it deserves.
The annual Tree of the Year competition finds locally loved ancient or veteran trees across the UK with the winner representing the UK in the following European Tree of the Year competition. Trees from across the country are hand selected by a panel of experts at the Woodland Trust to take part in the competition – but the holm oak in Westbury was selected as the people’s choice following a vote on social media and it now needs your help to be crowned the winner!
Will Hudson, who nominated the tree, said, “I find ancient and veteran trees in my spare time. Since a young age I have always been fascinated by trees and how old they can get to, the benefits they have to the people around them and also the peace and beauty they provide. This particular tree in Westbury is an amazing specimen as it has provided shade for the locals throughout the years and it is older than the buildings surrounding it – even that of the library which was built around 1800.
“This tree has protruding roots above the surface which make for a striking sight and its girth is over seven metres, so it can be classed as a veteran amongst holm oaks. I think it’s a worthy candidate for Woodland Trusts Urban Tree of the Year. I’m really proud that it has been shortlisted and hopefully brings some joy to the local community and importantly recognition for the tree itself.”
The Woodland Trust says, “This year’s national contest celebrates urban trees in our neighbourhoods, from city parks and busy town centres to residential streets. Each one is a locally loved ancient or veteran tree with a fascinating story, as well as supporting urban wildlife, cleaning our air, boosting wellbeing and much more.
“Chosen from our public nominations, this holm oak watches over the town library from the public Soisy Gardens that wrap around the great building. Nestled in the hub of the town, the oak’s far-reaching canopy is a popular spot for community events as well as to relax with a borrowed book. Its history is unknown, but its enormous size suggests it predates the 18th century building, which was originally Westbury House, a private residence once home to prominent mill owner and MP, Abraham Laverton.”
Senior library assistant at Westbury Library, Sarah Scholefield says, “I get to see this tree each day at work and it’s great that it’s becoming a little celebrity! We’re all really excited that this tree could win the competition and we’re urging everyone to vote for it to help put the library and Westbury on the map.”
The tree has also garnered international attention after the competition was featured on the American news network CNN and the Daily Mail. Voting in the Tree of the Year competition is open now and the deadline to get your vote in is 15th October with the winner announced on 19th October. To vote for the tree visit https://shorturl.at /hJK38 or search Woodland Trust Tree of the Year 2023.
