AS we're all walking more in the current situation, one thing you may have noticed more, is trees...

In Somerset, we are blessed with some outstanding woodlands, featuring some truly memorable trees - and now you can get your favourite some national recognition.

For the search has begun for the coveted title of Tree of the Year 2020.

Nominations are now open for people in England, Scotland and Wales to tell a story about their most loved tree, be it a visually stunning specimen, a beacon of hope in uncertain times, or a tree with an amazing back story.

Now in its seventh year, the Woodland Trust's Tree of the Year competition highlights and celebrates special trees across the nations.

Naomi Tilley, lead campaigner for the Woodland Trust, said: “Tree of the Year has helped discover and celebrate lots of incredible trees across the nations.

"This year during lockdown, when many are appreciating local greenspace more than ever before, we hope to uncover some local tree treasures.

"The UK has some of the most remarkable trees in the world – and often they’re found in someone’s back garden. We need the public’s support to find them, nominate them and vote for a winner.”

Last years's winners included The Allerton Oak (England), The Last Ent of Affric (Scotland) and The Old Chestnut of Pontypol (Wales).

While the 2019 winners were all ancient or veteran trees that had survived the threat of development, disease, grazing and climate change, nominations for Tree of the Year are welcome from any age or species of tree.

Young and newly planted trees in our gardens, communities and parks have their stories too. It is what sets your tree apart from the rest that the Trust wants to hear.

Any individual, group or organisation can nominate a tree and share its story at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/treeoftheyear.

Winning trees will benefit from a tree care award of up to £1,000 thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery. This can be used to benefit the tree’s health, for signage, or a community celebration.

Shortlisted trees in need of support are also eligible for a £500 care award.

Sanjay Singh, senior programmes manager with People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We’d like to encourage communities across Britain to get involved with the 2020 Tree of the Year competition and look forward to discovering amazing trees with wonderful stories.

"Thanks to all the players of People’s Postcode Lottery who are supporting this search for the nation’s most special trees.

"For the fourth year running money will be available to directly benefit the long term health of those special trees that need it the most.”

Nominations must be in by June 29, 2020. Entries will then be shortlisted by a panel of independent experts before facing a public vote later in the year.

The winner of Tree of the Year 2020 will represent the UK in the battle for European Tree of the Year in March 2021.

In line with Government advice, organisers discourage non-essential travel. Please do not drive to photograph a tree for nomination.