The only tree on the island takes a bough

Century-old spruce is Scotland’s finest

A spruce tree in the Outer Hebrides has been voted Scotland’s Tree of the Year.

Netty’s Tree on Eriskay was planted on the windy island more than 100 years ago by poet, priest and land rights activist Father Allan MacDonald – and until recently remained the only one on the 2.7 square mile island.

The tree became a climbing frame for children across the island, with encouragement from Netty MacDonald, who lived on the nearby croft.

It is thought their exploring may have helped to inspire Father MacDonald’s best-known work Eilein na h’Oige, or The Island of the Young.

After being nominated as a contender for the Woodland Trust competition by Inverness resident Eoina Wilson – who originates from the island – the historic tree fended off tough competition from across the country to be awarded the coveted title.

The spruce was originally shortlisted by a panel of judges before becoming one of six finalists to be put forward for an online vote including, the Camperdown Elm in Dundee, the Filo Pastry Tree in Stranraer, the Flodden Tree near Coldstream, Malloch’s Oak at Strathallan, Perthshire, and Napoleon’s Tree in Ecclefechan in Dumfriesshire.

George Anderson of Woodland Trust Scotland said: “Having a tree to climb as a child seems like something many of us take for granted. When there is only one tree where you live, that connection becomes quite special. Imagine the generations of youngsters with memories of this tree. It is a very worthy winner. Now let’s get Netty’s Tree through to Europe.”

The Woodland Trust’s contest aims to showcase the UK’s best trees to help drive up interest in their value and protection.

Each winner, for England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, received a £1,000 care award through support from players of the People’s Postcode lottery, to fund work on bolstering the health of the tree, signage and interpretation or a community celebration.

The public are now being encouraged to vote for the spruce to represent the UK in the European contest.

“Now let’s get Netty’s Tree through to Europe”

Photograph by John Maher WINNER: The much-loved tree was used as a climbing frame by generations of children on the windy island.

Netty MacDonald on the croft around 50 years ago