The Woodland Trust hasn't had far to look to find one of the best trees in the country.

The Grantham-based charity has shortlisted the much-loved Grantham Oak on Belton Lane in its England Tree of the Year competition for 2020.

The Woodland Trust's annual competition, now in its seventh year, throws the spotlight on the nation's best trees to help drive up interest in their value and protection.

The contest, supported by players of People's Postcode Lottery, takes place across Britain, with Wales and Scotland also each to crown a winner.

Whittled down from hundreds of nominations sent in by the general public during lockdown, a shortlist of ten trees is now up for the public vote.

The trust said of the Grantham Oak: "Plonked in a suburban street, this giant was here centuries before its neighbours. Last year its future looked doubtful due to groundworks near its roots.

"But thanks to a groundswell of support from the local council and campaigners, works have taken place to add a cordon and protective surface around the tree so it can outlive us all."

And as previously reported by Nub News, an interpretation panel was erected earlier this year.

Darren Moorcroft, chief executive of the Woodland Trust, said: "Easily overlooked and routinely undervalued, trees deserve their moment in the sun. This competition is a very simple way to demonstrate our appreciation of trees.

"We had more than double the number of trees nominated by members of the public this spring compared to past years. This is perhaps no surprise given that lockdown had so many of us slowing down and taking more note of nature on our doorsteps, a boost for our mental health and wellbeing.

"At a time when we're fighting both a climate and nature crisis, it is undeniable that trees are needed now more than ever. They are nature's most powerful weapon in this fight. This competition is a very simple way to show that people do care about trees, so please visit our website and vote for your favourite!"

The process is simple – the tree with the most votes wins. As well as putting the nation's best trees on the map, the awards - supported by players of People's Postcode Lottery - offer a £1,000 tree care award for each winning tree.

Voting closes at noon on September 24. By placing a vote individuals will also be entered into a Tree of the Year prize draw – the winner will receive a £100 voucher, thanks to competition partner Joules, to use in any of their stores or online.

To vote, go to www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/treeoftheyear.