A 150-year-old wych elm in Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland has won the UK's tree of the year award. The tree, known as the Bendy Tree, developed its distinctive near-horizontal trunk by growing sideways in response to strong winds blowing off the Irish Sea. Judges described the tree as "astonishing and bizarre" for its unusual form. Despite the harsh coastal conditions that shaped its growth pattern, the wych elm has persisted for over a century and a half, making it a notable survivor in its seaside location. The tree's resilience against environmental pressures and its striking visual appearance distinguished it among the year's candidates in the UK tree of the year competition. Wych elms are native European trees known for their hardiness, though many species have faced decline from Dutch elm disease in recent decades. This particular specimen's ability to adapt to extreme wind exposure and continue thriving demonstrates the capacity of trees to survive and flourish even under challenging environmental circumstances. The recognition highlights the cultural and ecological value placed on long-established trees within the UK and Ireland.