Rooted in legend, Cork tree is Ireland's favourite

An ancient yew tree rooted in the myth and legend of one of the country's great visitor attractions has been named the Tree of the Year.

The magnificent ‘witch’s Yew’ on the grounds of Blarney Castle in Co Cork, which is estimated to be at least 600-years-old, emerged victorious following an online vote against four other finalists - a mighty Oak at the Battle of the Boyne site in Oldbridge, Co Meath; the Arbour Hill Sycamore behind Dublin’s Collins Barracks; the Sycamore on the Farmleigh Estate and a sweet chestnut tree at Castletown Estate in Celbridge, Co Kildare.