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Wonky wych elm in County Down crowned Tree of the Year

Photo: BBC

Newcastle's 'Bendy Tree' has been crowned UK Tree of the Year 2026 - the first time a tree in Northern Ireland has won the national title since it was launched in 2014.

The 150-year-old wych elm on the central promenade took more than 30% of the national public vote.

The theme of the Woodland Trust's annual competition was Against All Odds, with trees across the UK shortlisted for being impressive, beautiful and sometimes baffling examples of how nature can survive adversity.

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SCIScienceDaily

Scientists warn a popular vitamin D supplement may have a hidden downside

A common vitamin D supplement may have an unexpected effect inside the body. Research published in 2025 found that taking vitamin D2 can reduce levels of vitamin D3, the form humans naturally make when skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is essential for helping the body absorb calcium and maintain healthy bones. It also plays roles in muscle, nerve, and immune function. In the UK, people are advised to consider taking 10 micrograms (µg) of vitamin D each day during the darker months, when sunlight is generally too weak for the skin to make enough of the vitamin.