ONE of Chirk's oldest residents has been included in a national celebration to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee.

Oak at the Gate of the Dead is one of 70 trees unveiled by The Prince of Wales which, along with 70 ancient woodlands, will be dedicated to his mother as part of the Queen's Green Canopy project.

His Royal Highness said: "These working woodlands and magnificent trees span our nation’s amazing landscape and exist for everyone to enjoy. The Ancient woodlands and trees can be found in urban as

well as rural environments, from National Parks to residential areas, representing the unique diversity of all corners of the United Kingdom.

"Trees and woodlands have a profound significance for us all – their steadfast and reassuring presence a reminder of our long serving Sovereign and her enduring dedication.

"Let us ensure that in her name we can now protect and strengthen this wonderful living Canopy for the next seventy years and, hopefully, way beyond. And, above all, let us ensure that future generations can celebrate and enjoy them."

The ancient Powys trees with Royal blessing will now form part of a network of historic trees recognised by the Queen for their heritage.

So why is the Oak at the Gate of the Dead so special?

The exceptional ancient oak and a heritage tree was named 2013 Tree of the Year winner and is thought to date back to the reign of Egbert, King of Wessex, in 802.

It was at this site in 1165 that Welsh forces ambushed an invading English army in the Battle of Crogen, and the dead are buried nearby.

In March 2009 a plaque was unveiled honouring this link. In February 2010 the tree split into two and was subsequently afforded the protection of a tree preservation order by Wrexham County Borough Council.

The Woodland Trust entered the tree into the European Tree of the Year awards in 2014, the first time a Welsh tree had been nominated.