Could the Major Oak become European Tree of the Year?

Many of you will know that since my last blog, the Major Oak has successfully been awarded the accolade of England’s Tree of the Year. It is incredible news for our famous veteran oak, which dates back over 500-years and is inextricably linked to the legend of Robin Hood. Now the Major Oak needs your vote once again. The next big step in the competition sees the Major Oak challenge trees from across Europe as they battle it out to be crowned European Tree of the Year 2015. With fierce competition from 13 other countries in Europe, including France, Italy, Slovakia, Ireland and Belgium, voting for the European Tree of the Year 2015 takes place from 1st February to 28th February 2015. The results will be published on the Tree of the Year website on 5th March, and the winner will be presented with the prize during a ceremony on 22nd April in Brussels. So to celebrate the upcoming competition, here are some 'major' facts which show why our beloved oak should win this prestigious award. 1. According to folklore, its hollow trunk was used as a hideout by Robin Hood and his Merry Men. The legend of Robin Hood is well-established across the globe with visitors travelling miles to visit the veteran oak. In fact at the 2013 Robin Hood Festival, which takes place annually in Sherwood Forest, an American couple flew thousands of miles to renew their wedding vows amid the picturesque woodland. 2. The world famous tree weighs an estimated 23 tonnes, has a girth of 10 metres (33ft) and a spread of 28 metres (92ft) making it the biggest oak tree in Britain. Now that is pretty impressive, right? 3. It is debatable how old the Major Oak is, but it is estimated to be between 800 to 1,000 years old. It is amazing that the tree is still around today, with a little support from slender steel poles prop the sprawling limbs of this forest giant. Again, to help the Major Oak be awarded European Tree of the Year 2015, vote online from 1st - 28th February 2015. Every vote counts! Stay up to date on the competition: www.facebook.com/visitsherwood and www.twitter.com/NottsCC with #TOTY and #VoteMajorOak.