Celtic band Skipinnish to write song for ancient oak if it wins Tree of the Year award

A thousand-year-old oak tree could be immortalised in music thanks to a Scottish band who named the tree after themselves.

The Skipinnish Oak of Lochaber is in the running for the prestigious Tree of the Year title, against 11 other oak contenders from across the UK.

Traditional Celtic Scots band Skipinnish, marking their 25th anniversary this year, have promised to compose a tune befitting its award-winning status if it takes the top prize.

The tree was named by band co-founder Andrew Stevenson, who grew up near the Achnacarry Estate, where it grows.

Mr Stevenson led a group of woodland experts to the tree several years ago, and they named it The Skipinnish Oak.

The Tree of the Year competition is run by the Woodland Trust to celebrate the contribution trees make to our lives and the planet.

The winner will represent the UK in the Europe Tree of the Year competition.

Mr Stevenson said: “I’ve known this tree all my life. It was part of my childhood and was a feature of the landscape I grew up in.

“Little did I know that a guided walk with some experts many years ago would lead to Skipinnish having a thousand-year-old oak named after us and is now in the running for this accolade. I’m immensely proud.”

He added: “Our music is rooted in the land, the sea and the people of the Highlands and Islands.

“They are all inextricably connected.

“We will strengthen this link further with some new music specially for The Skipinnish Oak should it come out on top in the poll and to add to its history.”

Accordionist and singer Angus MacPhail added: “The Skipinnish Oak being recognised as Tree of the Year would be a wonderful addition to our 25th anniversary year.

“Make sure you vote Skipinnish for this mighty oak and for new some music.

“This tree’s longevity and steadfastness puts our short 25 years in perspective.

“But there’s plenty to be learned from an ancient tree that’s stood this long in a changing world.”

To vote for Tree of the Year, visit https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/. Voting closes on October 21.