ANTRIM’S world-renowned Dark Hedges have been shortlisted for a Tree of the Year Award.
The unique avenue of beech trees near Ballymoney is among six Northern Irish trees that have been shortlisted.
Fans of the hit American television programme Game of Thrones will be familiar with the imposing view of the trees.
The iconic natural phenomenon has been used in episodes of the programme – and the Dark Hedges have gained a cult following ever since.
Now the trees could be awarded a British Woodland Trust’s award for the best tree in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Six trees in the North of Ireland have been shortlisted and the winning tree will go on to the European-wide awards.
The 18th century trees face strong competition in the Northern Irish division, with some even older trees up for the top prize, including the Tree of Witness at Enagh House in Derry.
Voting is open to the public for each country – so to cast your vote go to the Woodland Trust's website before October 12.
See the list of Northern Irish nominations in full below
The Peace Tree, Woodvale Park, West Belfast
Picture: Michael CooperThe Dark Hedges, Stranocum, Ballymoney
Picture: Michael CooperThe Mulberry Tree, Castle Park, Bangor
Picture: Michael CooperTree of Witness, Enagh Lough, Derry
Picture: Michael CooperMoneypenny’s Yew, Newry Canal, near Portadown
Picture: Michael CooperTree of Peace and Unity, Dunadry Hotel, Antrim
Picture: Michael Cooper