I saw this on our walk yesterday, it was just opposite the old brick building that I photographed.
I wonder what could have caused the tree to grow like this?
A lovely find Bulldog -- when retired my Dad used to make wallking sticks along with other more demanding items in wood . He would look out for similar straight hazel and other woods in a nearby coppice . This happens when the young wood is entwines with other creepers for example honeysuckle . I will photograph one og my dad's walking sticks to show you one of these days !!