December 14th 2021
The Woodland Trust has just announced that a defiant lone hawthorn guarding the Scottish coastline is the winner of the Woodland Trust’s Tree of The Year for 2021.
The tree at Kippford, Dalbeattie in Dumfries & Galloway is a fine example of a native, mature tree and while not spectacular in size, it cuts a striking presence as the only tree on the windswept cockle shell beach.
Now in its seventh year, the Woodland Trust’s Tree of The Year contest highlights the UK’s favourite trees to help show their value and need for protection.
The competition was held across social media, with a shortlist of 10 finalists selected from hundreds of nominations across The Woodland Trust’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts using the hashtag: #TreeoftheWeek
Tree surgeon Drew Patterson, who nominated the winning hawthorn, was thrilled to see such a 'beautiful specimen' take the coveted prize.
“I love this tree, it’s amazing,” said Drew, 57, whose father, grandfather and great grandfather all came from Dalbeattie.
It is a superb hawthorn and it’s incredible it has survived this well having been climbed on, battered by the winds and even bumped into by cars turning.
It’s in a wild place and has been blown over at an angle, but it is still standing strong and proud on the edge of the beach.
It has been there as long as I can remember and I have so many fond memories going back through the generations. I have pictures of my grandfather and mum in front of the tree.
It is at least 60 years and could be as many as 100. Seeing the tree win this award is special.”
Adam Cormack, head of campaigning for the Woodland Trust, said "the tree - which is also known as the ‘Kippford Leaning Tree’ - is a worthy winner."
He continued: “We’ve had winners of all shapes and sizes in previous years and this is a tree that stands out for different reasons, notably because of its striking presence in an unusual setting.
It is also a special tree for Drew because of the family significance, which highlights the importance individual trees can have. Lots of trees are equally meaningful to someone, providing a connection and treasured memories.”
The winning hawthorn tree will now go on to represent the UK in the European Tree of the Year 2022 contest.
Source - Woodland Trust Press Release:
https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/press-centre/2021/12/tree-of-the-year-2021-winner/
To read the full release, and to see a photo of the winner, (and read full list of Finalists), please visit the link above.