THE tree under which one of Scotland's celebrated musicians would compose his legendary fiddle tunes could soon win European recognition more than 200 years after he died.
The ancient oak on the banks of a Perthshire river is to be entered in the 2014 European Tree of the Year contest.
It not only aims to find Europe's best loved tree, but a tree with a story that can bring a community together.
Niel Gow's Oak beside the River Tay near Dunkeld will be the first ever entry from Scotland. Gow, who lived from 1727 to 1807, was a weaver but became Scotland's most famous 18th century fiddler. Best known for Niel Gow's Lament to his Second Wife and Farewell to Whisky, many of his compositions are still played today at concerts and ceilidhs around the world.
According to local legend, Gow penned many of his tunes underneath the oak. His patron, the 4th Duke of Atholl, could often be found on the opposite bank listening to the music.
Rory Syme from the Woodland Trust Scotland said it is a "perfect example of a tree that has great story to tell and a real connection with people".
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