A COUNCILLOR has praised those who have protected a 480-year-old tree in Wrexham which has won the Woodland Trust's Tree of the Year award. 

Acton Park's old Sweet Chestnut tree was announced as winner of the pretigious award on Wednesday evening - having secured 17 per cent of the public's vote, beating off competition from a dozen other trees across the UK. 

Borras councillor, Debbie Wallice, said: “What fantastic news for our community. It’s wonderful to see this beautiful 480-year-old tree recognised for all its glory.

“This award is a tribute to our community — to those who have cared for this tree over its half millennia. Here’s to the next 500 years!”

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Jack Taylor, lead campaigner for Woods Under Threat at Woodland Trust, said: “What an amazing and deserved winner! The sweet chestnut in Wrexham’s Acton Park is a symbol of resilience in the city having survived many storms and other threats.

"This almost 500-year-old giant is celebrated and loved by locals for its beauty and history and it now has the claim to fame of being a Tree of the Year winner.

"A true icon!”