The Cotoneaster, no contest. It flowers in spring, and the flowers are much loved by bees and other pollinators, has red berries later in the year, tolerates clipping and pruning well, does okay in part shade, prefers lighter soil but usually adapts to heavier soil so long as its not waterlogged. The Salix gets broad, only has catkins in spring and no other points of interest, and rust infection is a common and frequent problem.

I've only grown a Kilmarnock willow. The "umbrella" does probably get as wide as it's high, have you room for that? The branches will grow to touch the ground and if you trim them, it doesn't look good, in my opinion - like a pudding basin haircut! So only suitable for underplanting in the early years.

I agree with bamboo. cotoneaster definitely. and if you get the right species/variety it could be even an evergreen.

Thanks Bamboo, Landgirl100 and Seaburngirl. I had grown a salix in the spot before and it died on me this spring so quite fancy a change. Thanks for your choice. Cotoneaster it is then.

Cotoneaster for me too - much neater and lovely berries too.

Will post picture of it when planted! Off to the Dingle plant nursery, near Welshpool tomorrow to find one.