Trees of WONDER

Native trees hold a special place in the UK's traditions, myths and ecosystems

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Arguably our most valuable natural treasure, native trees have been with us since the last Ice Age ended 11,500 years ago. Others, such as the horse chestnut, arrived in Tudor times. Just one mature tree captures up to 22 tons of carbon a year, produces oxygen, filters pollution, and helps prevents flooding and soil erosion.

Simply being among trees lifts our spirits and lowers blood pressure, so it's no surprise that hospital patients may heal more quickly if they can see a tree from their bed.

Not to mention the countless animals, birds and insects that rely on them for food and shelter. Here are four of our favourite trees, and some of the curious tales surrounding our wonderful woodland.

The sturdy OAK

A symbol of stability, a single mature oak can support more than 2,000 different native species, making it the most biodiverse of all our native trees. They can live for centuries too - the Marton Oak in Cheshire measures 14m around its trunk, and is thought to be more than 1,000 years old.

DID YOU KNOW? Because it's usually the tallest tree in any open area, an oak is the most likely to be hit by lightning. No wonder it has been associated with the god of Thunder.