'Robin Hood' Major Oak Euro vote appeal
An appeal has been made to help get a Nottinghamshire tree named the best in Europe.
The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest is thought to be up to 1,000 years old and is linked to the legend of Robin Hood. In November, it won England's first Tree of the Year competition and is now competing for votes against 13 others across the continent. Officials said an online vote during February was a "one off opportunity" for people to show their support. Competition comes from trees as far apart as Hungary and Spain. From 'The Major's Oak' to Major Oak Source: Nottinghamshire County Council John Knight, committee chairman for culture at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: "The Major Oak touches people's hearts and their imagination. "It could be a one-off opportunity to compete for this European title, so we appeal to everyone to get behind Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak. It is one of the most iconic and best known trees in the world and it would be a fitting tribute if it could win this European award." Izi Banton, the council's site manager for Sherwood Forest country park, added: "I love its durability and the way people react to it. "This tree, perhaps like no other, captures the imagination instantly and it is this I think, and the part it plays in raising the profile of ancient and special trees, which is why the Major Oak deserves to be European tree of the Year." To place your vote in the competition visit www.treeoftheyear.org between 1 February and 28 February.