A 1,000 year old King John Oak tree, nestled in the grounds of a pre-school in Sparkford, could be crowned Tree of the Year – but it needs the public’s support.

Voting is underway for this year’s Woodland Trust Tree of the Year competition which looks to find the nation’s favourite tree.

Somerset’s own King John Oak, which is almost 11 metres wide, has been nominated.

The King John Oak is one of 12 oaks selected by a panel of tree experts, with one nominated by the public through social media.

The nomination of the Woodland Trust’s website said: “Growing in the grounds of a school with over 500 years of history, countless generations of children have grown up alongside this wonderful tree.

“The school was originally founded in 1519 – when the tree was already around 500 years old – by Richard Fitzjames, Bishop of London, and his nephew, John, who became Sir John Fitzjames, chief justice of the King’s bench.

“It became Hazlegrove Prep School in 1947 and pupils of recent years have celebrated the tree they are lucky to see every day.”

The competition is open until October 21 with the winner announced on October 29. The winning tree will then compete in the European Tree of the Year contest.

The Woodland Trust said: “A tree may be a village’s oldest inhabitant, a founding figure in a region’s identity or a natural monument integral to a nation’s story.

“It can also be a much-loved local landmark, a place to play and exercise, a gardener’s pride and joy or a space for communities to gather.

“This year’s national contest celebrates magnificent oaks across the UK. With centuries of history behind them, each one has a fascinating story to tell, as well as supporting important wildlife, cleaning our air, boosting wellbeing and much more.

“Our expert panel has shortlisted 12 fantastic oaks from across the UK for Tree of the Year 2024. Now is your chance to vote for your favourite and help us crown a champion.”

To vote, visit the Woodland Trust website or search https://shorturl.at/Cufno