A COPPER beech tree which has become a central part of the playground of Prestonpans Primary School is in the running to be named Scottish Tree of the Year.

The Ding Dong Tree is so woven into the life of the school it has been described as almost like having an extra member of staff.

It gained its name from a tig game invented by pupils who compete to touch its trunk, shouting 'Ding Dong!'

The tree’s protecting canopy makes it an ideal outdoor classroom, and it brings particular calm to children with complex emotions.

Inside the school itself, a calendar display shows pictures of the tree throughout the year alongside pupils’ achievements and most memorable moments of learning. Children hang bird feeders from the branches and it is the subject of many science and art projects.

Beloved by generations of pupils, the Ding Dong Tree has become central to the life and identity of the school, appearing on the banner of its website.

Now it is one of six finalists in the Scottish Tree of the Year competition.

And it is up against stiff competition, including a 700-year-old yew in Renfrewshire, a Trossachs sycamore which has swallowed a bicycle, and a giant historic specimen of Himalayan spruce at the Hopetoun Estate near South Queensferry.

The winning tree will be in line for £1,000 of pampering, thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, with £500 going to any tree which attracts more than 1,000 votes. The 'Tree LC' packages can be spent on things such as pruning, mulching, weeding, fencing or signage depending on the needs of the individual trees.

Voting closes on Sunday, October 9, and the winning tree will be named at a reception at the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday, October 25.

Everyone who votes will be in with a chance of winning a two-night stay at a DoubleTree by Hilton hotel of their choice.

George Anderson of Woodland Trust Scotland said: “Many of the finalists are rather grand historic or rare specimens.

"The Ding Dong Tree is on the face of it quite an ordinary copper beech, but it has found a special place in the hearts of the school community. It is a great example of what individual trees can mean to people.”

Clara Govier, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We’re delighted our players are supporting the Woodland Trust and providing the opportunity for communities all over Great Britain to celebrate these fantastic trees and care for them long into the future.”

To see all the shortlists and vote for your favourite tree, visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/treeoftheyear