A distinctive tree in Newcastle, County Down, has been shortlisted for the UK Tree of the Year competition, organised by the Woodland Trust.

The tree, a wych elm known locally as the 'bendy tree', is located on the Central Promenade and is the sole survivor of a row planted in the mid-19th century. It has become a well-known local landmark, often photographed and occasionally used by children for climbing.

The Woodland Trust's annual competition aims to highlight rare, ancient or at-risk trees across the UK. This year, ten trees were shortlisted, with eight selected by a panel of experts and two chosen by public vote as wildcard entries.

Voting is open until 5pm on Tuesday 29 September, and can be completed on the Woodland Trust website. The winner will be announced in early October and will go on to represent the UK in the European Tree of the Year competition.

According to the Woodland Trust, the tree has survived extreme weather, development and disease. It grows almost horizontally, a shape attributed to the harsh coastal conditions it has endured for more than a century.