2014 Tree at David Livingstone Centre
Until today, I’ve always thought the Milheugh area of the Calder was home to Blantyre’s oldest trees. Some of the trees on that Estate and at Greenhall are absolutely huge, with expansive tree trunks certainly as old as several centuries.
However, on Sunday 2nd November 2014, whilst out walking , I was forced to conclude that an older tree exists in Low Blantyre, one I’ve never noticed before. But how I noticed it this time! I was walking along the River Clyde beyond the David Livingstone Centre on one of the reconditioned nature trails. The sight of this tree, stopped me in my tracks. It is MASSIVE!
2014 Tree at the Woodland near David Livingstone Centre
I photographed it with my dog to put the size in context. The Clyde is in the background. I would estimate the tree trunk to be around 4.5 – 5m in circumference and it was way taller than any other tree around it. I’m certain given the proximity to Shuttle Row, David Livingstone himself as a boy must have seen it!
Indeed, this tree looks so many centuries old, that I would not be surprised if it dates back to the days of the old Priory.
If anybody knows of a contender for this title, then please let me know by sending in your picture.