Two men convicted for illegally felling iconic Sycamore Gap tree
- The Sycamore Gap tree, a symbol of cultural heritage, was illegally felled in September 2023.
- Two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, were found guilty of the act and are due for sentencing.
- An artistic installation incorporating a piece of the tree will be opened to the public, allowing for community healing and remembrance.
In the United Kingdom, the cherished Sycamore Gap tree, which had stood for over 200 years along the Roman-built Hadrian's Wall in northern England, was illegally cut down in September 2023, causing widespread outrage. The tree, famous for its picturesque setting and featured in the film 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,' was revered by locals and visitors alike, drawing many to its scenic location. Following the incident, two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers from Cumbria, were found guilty of criminal damage for their involvement in the unlawful act. They are scheduled to be sentenced on July 15, 2025. In the aftermath of the tree's destruction, the community expressed profound grief and loss, leading to the creation of a public consultation regarding the future of the tree's remains. This effort culminated in an artistic installation by Charlie Whinney, which includes a notable piece of the original trunk now on permanent display at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre, located just two miles from the location of the tree. This installation aims to provide visitors the opportunity to engage with the legacy of the tree, touching the trunk and enjoying nearby benches inscribed with words from the community, reinforcing the bond between nature and the public. The installation represents not only a memorial for the lost tree but also a space for reflection and hope for future conservation efforts. The Northumberland National Park Authority received an outpouring of sentiment from the community following the felling, with many describing how the tree was a part of their memories and experiences. The public consultation reflected a collective desire to remember the tree and process the emotional impact of its loss. As the installation opens to the public, it is seen as a significant moment for the people of Northumberland, allowing them to reconnect with the site and continue to hold the tree dear in their hearts. Tony Gates, the Chief Executive of the Northumberland National Park Authority, noted that the installation gives a “ray of hope for the future” and encourages a renewed commitment to protecting natural spaces. The legacy of the Sycamore Gap tree, though diminished in its physical form, continues to inspire connection and reverence among all who cherished it.