Oak tree which survived World War II bomber crash, competing for Tree of the Year

An oak tree in Rutland that was struck by a World War II Lancaster bomber on 26 April 1945 has been shortlisted for UK Tree of the Year award.

The 180-year-old oak still shows visible signs of the crash, including a slight dip in its canopy and twisted central branches.

The Lancaster bomber was returning prisoners of war from Germany when it hit the tree; the aircraft crashed killing all but two of the seven crew.

The tree later survived a second threat when a water company's plan to install pipes was opposed by local objections.

Other nominees include the Crowhurst Yew in East Sussex, which survived a cannonball hit during the English Civil War.