Ancient oaks in running for UK's Tree of the Year

Three Scottish oak trees each believed to be at least 1,000 years old have been nominated for the UK's Tree of the Year award.

The trees are The Michael in Dalkeith Country Park in Midlothian, Skipinnish Oak on Lochaber's Achnacarry Estate and the Capon Tree - one of the last survivors of the ancient Jed Forest in the Borders.

Trees from England, Wales and Northern Ireland are also on the shortlist of 12 put to a public vote in the Woodland Trust competition.

The trust's Dr Kate Lewthwaite said: "It’s humbling to think how many events these trees have lived through."

It has been suggested the name of The Michael could be a corruption of the Scots word "meikle", meaning big.

But the trust said others have linked the oak to a 16th Century sailing ship named The Michael.

The Skipinnish Oak is hidden in a thick conifer plantation.

The name comes from Scottish trad band Skipinnish after they played at a Native Woodland Discussion Group gathering in the area in 2009.

Band member Andrew Stevenson also remembered the oak from his childhood.

Woodland Trust said the origins of the Capon Tree's name were uncertain, but it could have been derived from the word "capuche", the hood worn by monks at nearby Jedburgh Abbey.

Adam Cormack, head of campaigns at the trust, said: "The history of our country is interwoven with these wonderful trees.

"It is essential that future generations have the opportunity to stand under a centuries-old oak and wonder what stories it holds."

Voting is open on the trust's website until 21 October.