The UK's Tree of the Year contest, organized by the Woodland Trust, is honoring ancient trees in towns and cities. The Oak of Belton Lane, also known as the Grantham Oak, is a top contender for the award due to its age of 500 years and unique shape from previous pruning. Sheffield's Chelsea Road Elm is also in the running, as it survived development and the Dutch elm disease epidemic. Ancient trees in urban areas are important for wildlife, biodiversity, and community well-being, according to the Woodland Trust. The winner will compete in the European Tree of the Year contest.

The post Tree of the Year Contest Features Oak that Stood Up to Bombing and Elm that Survived Catastrophic Plague appeared first on Balanced News Summary.