An unusually twisted Scots pine is in the running to be named the best in England as part of the Woodland Trust Tree of the Year Competition.

It is in a small area of woodland south of Thetford, and one of 10 shortlisted by the charity in its annul contest to celebrate the nation's special trees.

Each was chosen by a panel of judges based on its beautiful and unusual looks or quirky story behind it.

Named the "Twisted Tree" due to it being bent round in a loop, it is believed that this Norfolk conifer grew entirely naturally.

Horticulturalist and TV personality David Domoney said: "Trees are such an important part of our cities and countryside, not only for their beauty, but also for the health benefits they offer to all living creatures.

"Choosing the one tree that stands out from the rest is a hard decision."

Established in 1972, the Woodland Trust now has over 1,000 sites in its care covering over 22,500 hectares and is the largest woodland conservation charity in the UK.

The charity is holding its annual competition celebrating the nation's most unique trees, with a total of ten from around the UK shortlisted to win, including the towering Allerton Oak in Liverpool, and London's Fallen Tree in Richmond Park.

Adam Cormack, head of campaigning at the Woodland Trust said: "We really hope the people of Norfolk will show their supported for their twisted tree.

"The tree of the year competition is all about highlighting and celebrating the nations most remarkable and special trees and this one is certainly that.

"Trees across the country are constantly under threat of felling due to inappropriate developments, so this is also about helping to raise the profile of trees in order to offer them better protection."

The charities competition runs in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales with each country having its own champion which will be represented in the 2020 European Tree of the Year contest.

To view all the entries and vote go to woodlandtrust.org.uk/treeoftheyear.Voting is open until midday on September 27.