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Major Oak photo appeal launched after tree's death

Malia CartyNottingham
Ben Andrew/RSPB A recent image of the Major Oak, taken in 2026 Ben Andrew/RSPB
The Major Oak - which has stood at the heart of Sherwood Forest for hundreds of years - has had its first spring without new leaves

A public appeal has been launched for photos of the iconic Major Oak following its death.

Nottinghamshire library organisation Inspire has asked the public to upload their photos of the oak to its online archive to "keep the tree's legacy alive".

It comes after the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) - the conservation charity that manages Sherwood Forest - announced the Major Oak was believed to have died after the tree's first spring with no leaves this year.

Inspire is encouraging the public to "submit their own photos and memories of the incredible tree, to help grow the collection and keep its memory strong".

Inspire Picture Archive A black and white image of the Major OakInspire Picture Archive
The RSPB said the Major Oak had begun to decay and would eventually collapse
Inspire Picture Archive A sepia image of small child hiding inside a hole in the Major OakInspire Picture Archive
The oldest picture of the Major Oak in the online archive dates back to 1860, 30 years after the first permanent photograph

The ancient oak is estimated to have lived in Sherwood Forest for up to 1,200 years, and is famous for its connection to the legend of Robin Hood.

Inspire has an online picture archive of more than 40,000 photos of historical events and monuments. The oldest image of the Major Oak dates back to the 1800s.

"The Major Oak is so integral to Nottinghamshire's identity, and we want to help preserve it for future generations by gathering photographs and memories from anyone who has visited and appreciated it," said Evey Boffey, Inspire communications and marketing assistant.

Inspire Picture Archive An old man sitting next to the major oak Inspire Picture Archive
The library said each image would be evaluated by Inspire archivists before being added to the collection

The Major Oak will not be removed by the bird charity, but will remain standing as a "natural monument" and an important ecological feature, said Hollie Drake, senior site manager for Sherwood Forest and Budby South Forest at the RSPB.

As time passes, the ancient oak will begin to lose its decaying wood and, in time, collapse, she added.

"Photographs taken now help preserve its appearance as it transitions from a living ancient tree into the next chapter of its story," Drake said.

The tree will be monitored by the charity to ensure it remains stable as it decays and protect the wood and eco-system that relies on it.

The RSPB will also work with conservation partners to support other ancient and veteran trees including other saplings grown from the Major Oak, said Drake.

"The focus now is on protecting the tree in its final phase and ensuring its ecological and cultural legacy continues," she added.

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