A TREE near Malvern is in the running to be named England's Tree of the Year.

The Whiteleaved Oak, based in a valley between Chase End Hill and Ragged Stone Hill at the southern end of the Malvern Hills.

The tree is believed to be around 400 to 500 years old and attracts many visitors from all around the world.

Brian Haynes, who has lived in the hamlet of Whiteleaved Oak for 30 years, nominated the tree in the Woodland Trust's competition.

Mr Haynes said: "I nominated the tree because it is very special, but also because of all the people it attracts. The tree has been venerated by spiritual devotees over time from all over the world.

"Druids and dowsers, witches, Pagans, Rainbow Warriors, north American Indians, Extra Terrestrial Ambassadors from London hoping to attract flying saucers and Mayan astrologers are just some of the people who have visited the tree over the years."

Mr Haynes has written a book about the tree and the tales associated with it, and he says it deserves to be crowned Tree of the Year.

"The tree is a big part of the community here. I spent ten to 15 years gathering modern folklore and stories about it for my book. It really means a lot to people and it would be great if the tree won," he added.

The tree is up against the Major Oak in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire, which was made famous by Robin Hood, and also Newton’s Apple Tree in Lincolnshire, which is said to have inspired Sir Isaac Newton in his theory of gravity.

Woodland Trust ancient tree specialist, Jill Butler, said: “We sometimes take our trees for granted, but every nomination in this contest reminds us how trees are incredibly significant in people’s lives, over many years. More importantly we want this recognition to be a step in ensuring all our special trees can be protected for future generations to enjoy.”

The charity received over 200 nominations from across the country and the public now has until November 4 to vote for their favourite entry from the final shortlist. The winner will represent England against competitors from Wales, Scotland and elsewhere in Europe in a competition run by the Environmental Partnership Association in April 2015.

To cast your vote go to www.woodlandtrust.org.uk.