Sycamore Gap tree – latest: Police erect fence to protect site as man in his sixties is arrested

A man in his sixties has been arrested in connection with the felling of the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree after a teenager was released on bail.

Sycamore Gap, thought to be around 300 years old, was made famous by actor Kevin Costner when it appeared in his 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves, and was voted English Tree of the Year in 2016 in the Woodland Trust’s awards. It has become one of the most photographed trees in the UK.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies, of Northumbria Police, said: “The senseless destruction of what is undoubtedly a world-renowned landmark – and a local treasure – has quite rightly resulted in an outpour shock, horror and anger throughout the North East and further afield.

“I hope this second arrest demonstrates just how seriously we’re taking this situation, and our ongoing commitment to find those responsible and bring them to justice.

“Although another arrest has been made, this investigation is still in the early stages, and we would continue to encourage any members of the public with information which may assist to get in touch.”

Key Points

• Man in his 60s arrested following felling of Sycamore Gap tree

• Tree’s destruction ‘part of the broader war on nature'

• Hairy Bikers say Sycamore Gap tree culprit ‘murdered spirit of Northumberland’

• Crowdfunding page raises more than £1,700 for rejuvenation of Sycamore Gap

• New shoots expected to grow from Sycamore Gap tree but it ‘won’t be the same again'

• LBC host argues felling of Sycamore Gap tree represents the ‘cultural glue’ being ‘splintered'

Retired lumberjack ‘arrested over felling' insists he ‘didn’t do it’

09:46 , Tara Cobham

A retired lumberjack said to have been arrested over the felling of the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree has insisted he “didn’t do it”.

Speculation over what happened to the iconic tree has been rife since it was found next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland having been chopped down overnight on Wednesday.

Northumbria Police began searching the farm of former lumberjack Walter Renwick, 69, on Friday night, according to The Times.

The pensioner’s daughter-in-law Lauren identified him as the man in his sixties who was arrested by police on Friday, saying: “He’s in custody right now [in Newcastle police station] for something he hasn’t even done. He’s got two leaking heart valves. He’s never fit enough to get up there.”

The 69-year-old himself has denied locals’ and online accusations that he was behind the tree’s cutting down.

Mr Renwick told The Sun he understood why there were rumours circulating about him, citing the nature of his former job and his recent eviction from his property, but he insisted: “I didn’t do it.”

Police yet to issue update after man arrested

14:36 , Tara Cobham

Northumbria Police are yet to issue an update after the force arrested a man in his 60s on Friday following the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree.

A teenager who was also arrested in connection with the incident was released on bail on Friday.

Robin Hood actor tells of heartbreak but faith Sycamore Gap ‘will survive’

14:14 , Tara Cobham

Robin Hood actor Brian Blessed has told of his heartbreak over the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree but faith that “it will survive”.

The 86-year-old former president of the Council for National Parks said the destruction of the tree, which featured in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Price of Thieves, was “beyond comprehension”.

Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, he said of the “deeply honoured” Sycamore Gap: “It will survive and it will be very bushy.”

The actor, who starred in the film as Robin Hood’s father Lord Locksley, also suggested park bosses plant another tree. “You know, give it company and plant another tree a good 200 yards or 300 yards to keep it company,” he said. “It will talk to it, it will help it.”

Telling of how “heartbroken” he is at the loss of Sycamore Gap, he added: “There was a wonderful Sycamore tree... they’re wonderful with their big leaves and someone has cut it down.

“People have gone there and it brought joy to them, people have left their ashes there when they’ve died, they’ve got married there, and all kinds of lovely events have taken place.”

Watch: Nature expert calls for ‘sycamore gap forest’

14:01 , Tara Cobham

National Trust urges people to not visit Sycamore Gap

12:10 , Tara Cobham

The National Trust has urged people to not visit the Sycamore Gap tree.

In a statement, it said the site is now closed to visitors and added: “We ask that people keep away from the site at this current time while we fully assess the fallen tree and can do the work needed to make it safe.”

Author of The Secret Life of Trees on Sycamore Gap felling

11:13 , Tara Cobham

Maybe good can come from the apparently senseless or downright malicious felling of the beautiful sycamore tree that for at least 300 years stood at the centre of the Northumberland Gap. Maybe its destruction will serve as a pivotal moment, when people born and brought up in this ultra-materialist, ultra-competitive, exclusively anthropocentric age finally undergo the mind shift that’s needed if we, humanity, are ever going to save what’s left of the natural world, and live in harmony with our fellow creatures.

If we changed our attitude then we, humanity, could realistically be looking forward to the next million years, for starters. That we are now staring Armageddon in the face is not only tragic. It is absurd. We can learn much of what we need to know from trees – far more and of far greater profundity than we ever can from politicians and their think tanks of lawyers and financiers who set the tone of modern society and run our lives.

Read more:

I’m a tree expert – here’s how the Sycamore Gap tree ‘felt’ as it fell | Colin Tudge

Experts say new shoots expected to grow but tree will never be same again

07:57 , Tara Cobham

Experts have said new shoots are expected to grow from the tree but it will never be the same again.

National Trust general manager Andrew Poad told BBC Breakfast the stump was “healthy” and staff might be able to coppice the tree, a technique allowing new shoots to grow from the base of a trunk.

Rob Ternent, head gardener at The Alnwick Garden in Northumberland, said the tree will start growing again but “won’t ever be the same shape or as good of a tree as it was”.

He said: “It’s worth a try but I think livestock and wildlife will potentially damage it as well. It’ll be very difficult to get it back to the original tree.

“The growing season’s coming to an end now but by spring next year it will have some life in it. It’ll probably be about eight foot tall, but it’ll be lots of singular branches, more bushy.

“It was about 300 years old so it’ll take a long time to get back to that size. It’s a massive shame.”

Hairy Biker hits out at tree vandal

06:22 , Lydia Patrick

Hairy Biker Si King has shared his outrage with the vandal, describing the act as a ‘murder’.

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

04:22 , Lydia Patrick

Striking a note of optimism after the iconic Sycamore Gap tree was felled, experts have suggested it could be saved.

In an incident that caused widespread outrage and upset, the world-famous tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was chopped down overnight on Wednesday.

However, all hope is not lost, according to Andrew Poad of the National Trust, who pointed to the health of the ancient Sycamore Gap, which is thought to be around 300 years old, as giving reason to believe the tree could regrow.

Tara Cobham has the whole story here

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

Watch - Sycamore Gap: Iconic tree seen lying next to Hadrian’s Wall after being ‘felled by vandals’

03:22 , Lydia Patrick

Sycamore Gap: Iconic tree seen lying next to Hadrian’s Wall after being ‘felled’

‘It won’t be same again’

02:22 , Lydia Patrick

National Trust general manager Andrew Poad told BBC Breakfast the stump was “healthy” and staff might be able to coppice the tree, a technique allowing new shoots to grow from the base of a trunk.

He said: “It’s a very healthy tree, we can see that now, because of the condition of the stump, it may well regrow a coppice from the stump, and if we could nurture that then that might be one of the best outcomes, and then we keep the tree.”

Rob Ternent, head gardener at The Alnwick Garden in Northumberland, said the tree will start growing again but “won’t ever be the same shape or as good of a tree as it was”.

Read the full story here

New shoots expected to grow from Sycamore Gap tree but it ‘won’t be same again’

History of the Sycamore Gap tree

01:22 , Lydia Patrick

A tourist attraction, a film location and a symbol of hope - the felled Sycamore Gap tree was many things to many people.

The 300 year-old natural beauty was one of the most photographed trees in the country and an iconic sight next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. However, this week it was felled prompting an outpouring of anger and sorrow, from campaigners and the public alike.

Read more about the tree’s story here

The Sycamore Gap tree that stood tall for 300 years - in pictures

Why is it so famous?

Sunday 1 October 2023 00:22 , Lydia Patrick

The Sycamore Gap is one of the most photographed trees in the world with it’s romantic setting next to Hadrian’s Wall.

The tree is thought to be 300 years old and was planted between 1860 and 1890, say the National Trust.

The tree starred in the 1991 Hollywood film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves, which starred Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman, meaning it is also known as ‘Robin Hood Tree’.

‘I don’t want those memories to be spoiled by a single act'

Saturday 30 September 2023 23:30 , Lydia Patrick

Tony Gates, chief executive of the Northumberland National Park, has had to console teary visitors and staff members as they remember the significance of the tree.

Many visitors hold the Sycamore Gap closely as the backdrop to significant life moments, such as proposals and first dates.

Mr Gates, as reported in the Guardian said: “I don’t want those memories to be spoiled by a single act,” he said. “I want people still to be able to celebrate those positive memories of Sycamore Gap.”

‘More than just a tree'

Saturday 30 September 2023 22:23 , Lydia Patrick

An artist shares his tribute to the tree- which had been the subject of many of his comissioned pieces.

Alfie Joey said the act of vandalism was more ‘mindless’ than marking the Angel of the North.

The bishop of Newcastle shares her sadness

Saturday 30 September 2023 21:19 , Lydia Patrick

Have police caught the tree feller?

Saturday 30 September 2023 20:30 , Lydia Patrick

Officers investigating the vandalism of an iconic Northumberland tree made a second arrest yesterday after a teenager they arrested was released on bail.Northumberland police arrested a second male – in his 60s – in connection with the incident. He remains in police custody at this time.

The police force investigating the incident are still appealing for more information.

In pictures - The 300-year-old Sycamore Gap tree

Saturday 30 September 2023 20:00 , Lydia Patrick

Fence put up to protect the site

Saturday 30 September 2023 19:30 , Lydia Patrick

The Northumberland National Park shared a poignant statement on Facebook detailing how they will protect the space where the Sycamore Gap tree stood.

The Northumberland National Park Authority

‘The Sycamore Gap tree could not survive the spite of a saw'

Saturday 30 September 2023 19:00 , Lydia Patrick

Frieda Hughes mourns the late, great tree at Hadrian’s Wall after the 300 year-old tree toppled to the floor after surviving two World Wars.

Read the full poem here

300 years of weather, two world wars: the Sycamore Gap tree is gone | Frieda Hughes

A poignant poem to remember the Sycamore Gap tree

Saturday 30 September 2023 18:30 , Lydia Patrick

A social media account dedicated to the North East of England have shared a poem to condemn the ‘cruelty’ of the person who culled their tree.

‘The tree. Our tree’.

Those who cut down the Sycamore Gap tree, Have committed an act of great cruelty. They have shown no regard for nature’s grace, And left a scar upon this sacred place. Let those who cut down the sycamore tree, Beware the wrath of nature, wild and free. For their evil deed will not be forgotten.

Author shares why the culling is so significant

Saturday 30 September 2023 18:00 , Lydia Patrick

The author of a book which highlights the importance of trees shares why the culling could open up a new way of thinking.

Writer Colin Tudge is heartbroken yet somewhat optimisitc that the event could lead to a widespread shift in perspective as people mourn the loss of the Sycamore Gap tree.

He writes: “If we changed our attitude then we, humanity, could realistically be looking forward to the next million years, for starters. That we are now staring Armageddon in the face is not only tragic. It is absurd. We can learn much of what we need to know from trees – far more and of far greater profundity than we ever can from politicians and their think tanks of lawyers and financiers who set the tone of modern society and run our lives.”

Read the rest of his take here

I’m a tree expert – here’s how the Sycamore Gap tree ‘felt’ as it fell | Colin Tudge

Just Giving Campaign to rejuvenate Sycamore Gap near target

Saturday 30 September 2023 17:30 , Lydia Patrick

A fundraiser that hopes to raise money to fill the void left by the demolition of the Sycamore Tree has reached £3,736 of its £5,000 target.

The money will be donated to Northumberland National Park and National Trust North East to give new life to the area where the Sycamore tree stood.

You can donate here:

Alncom's fundraiser for National Trust

Angry social media user compares the act to HS2 demolition

Saturday 30 September 2023 17:00 , Lydia Patrick

A campaigner took to X to voice her annoyance that people heartbroken over the loss of the Sycamore Tree aren’t as upset about the culling of other trees to make way for the high-speed rail line.

Lizzie Carr shared a photo which she claims shows one of 108 ancient, native woodlands destroyed to make way for HS2.

Tweets by LizzieOutside

First Date’s Fred Sirieix questions everyones deep sadness over the Sycamore Tree

Saturday 30 September 2023 16:30 , Lydia Patrick

Everyone’s favourite Maitre D’ compared the culling of the Sycamore Tree to the worldwide climate crisis- calling for a wider conversation about deforestation.

He too to X to air his concern that people don’t share the same passion and urgency when thousands of trees globally are uprooted.

He added: “The rain forest (and others) is disappearing more and more everyday. We know this. Yet it carries on.”

Recap: World famous tree on Hadrian’s Wall was ‘deliberately felled’ leaving locals heartbroken

Saturday 30 September 2023 16:01 , Matt Mathers

Police said they were investigating whether a criminal offence had been committed after pictures emerged on Thursday morning of the tree lying on its side by the wall, after apparently having been cut down.

Full report:

World famous tree on Hadrian’s Wall was ‘deliberately felled’ leaving locals furious

Rory Stewart pays tribute to ‘sacred tree'

Saturday 30 September 2023 15:25 , Matt Mathers

Former Tory MP Rory Stewart has joined those paying tribute to the sycamore tree, saying it is the closest “our culture got to a sacred tree.”

“Venerated, visited, endlessly represented - anachronistic in age weaving Robin Hood and St Oswald and the frontier forts and tribes of the Roman wall - and now felled like the druids’ groves,” he wrote.

Mr Stewart served as the MP for Penrith and the Border, Cumbria, until 2019. He also worked as a minister in four government departments.

Woman writes poem in tribute to ‘sentinel of time’ Sycamore Gap tree

Saturday 30 September 2023 14:58 , Matt Mathers

A woman has written a poem paying tribute to the Sycamore Gap tree, describing it as a “sentinel of time”.

Laura Charlton, says she wrote the poem to try to capture the “recklessness of the actions and the sense of bereavement the locals are feeling.”

Here it is in full:

Ode to a Sycamore Tree

The birds sing their morning song

Wind dances through the leaves

Almost just as it once was

Yet Northumberland is bereaved.

Deprived violently by force

From the ancient wall where she stood

A stoic soldier of the seasons

Centuries etched in sycamore wood.

Yet after enduring the brutal elements

Northumberland’s sentinel of time

Reaved from her birthplace forever

An act of senseless, human crime.

So after centuries spent protecting

Northumberland from the wall

A national treasure, forever lost

A crime with no justice at all.

So let the birds sing their morning song,

Let the wind dance through what’s left

Never again as it once was

Northumberland is bereft.

ICYMI: The Sycamore Gap Tree in pictures as nature lovers ‘shocked and saddened’ by felling

Saturday 30 September 2023 14:30 , Matt Mathers

A tourist attraction, a film location and a symbol of hope - the felled Sycamore Gap tree was many things to many people.

The 300 year-old natural beauty was one of the most photographed trees in the country and an iconic sight next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. However, this week it was felled prompting an outpouring of anger and sorrow, from campaigners and the public alike.

Faiza Saqib reports:

The Sycamore Gap tree that stood tall for 300 years - in pictures

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

Saturday 30 September 2023 13:40 , Matt Mathers

Striking a note of optimism after the iconic Sycamore Gap tree was felled, experts have suggested it could be saved.

In an incident that caused widespread outrage and upset, the world-famous tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was chopped down overnight on Wednesday.

However, all hope is not lost, according to Andrew Poad of the National Trust, who pointed to the health of the ancient Sycamore Gap, which is thought to be around 300 years old, as giving reason to believe the tree could regrow.

Tara Cobham reports:

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

ICYMI: Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does’, say experts

Saturday 30 September 2023 13:20 , Matt Mathers

“Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does,” is the devastating verdict of experts on the iconic Sycamore Gap tree after it was felled.

With police believing it to be a deliberate act of vandalism, the chainsaw-cutting down of the world-famous tree next to Hadrian’s Wall, in Northumberland, has triggered widespread outrage and sorrow.

Tara Cobham reports:

Sycamore Gap: ‘Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does’

There’s no such thing as ‘just a tree’ – here are some that make me go ‘wow’

Saturday 30 September 2023 12:33 , Matt Mathers

Broadcaster Alastair Campbell has become as well known for his daily picture posts of trees as he is for his political punditry. Here, he reflects on why the Hadrian’s Wall sycamore matters and some of his recent favourite tree ‘spots’.

Read Alastair’s full piece below:

There’s no such thing as ‘just a tree’ – here are some that make me go ‘wow’

After 300 years of weather and two world wars, the Sycamore Gap tree could not survive the spite of a saw

Saturday 30 September 2023 10:35 , Matt Mathers

In her latest exclusive poem, Frieda Hughes mourns the late, great tree at Hadrian’s Wall – and also muses on what it feels like to be a ‘fugitive’ in London, late at night…

Read in the poem in full here:

300 years of weather, two world wars: the Sycamore Gap tree is gone | Frieda Hughes

Local with a grudge against National Trust may be behind felling - locals

Saturday 30 September 2023 10:09 , Matt Mathers

A local with a grudge against the National Trust may be responsible for felling the Sycamore Gap tree, locals believe.

“I heard it was a tenant farmer evicted from his land,” one drinker at the nearby Twice Brewed Inn tells, told The Daily Telegraph.  “He threatened he would cut down the tree.”

The paper said another rumour circulating locally was that a National Trust worker who had been sacked in the morning stole a chainsaw and felling gear in retaliation.

The National Trust denied the claim.

From George I to Charles III, the Sycamore Gap tree saw British history unfold

Saturday 30 September 2023 08:50 , Matt Mathers

Two world wars, multiple monarchs, disasters and jubilation: Sean O’Grady reflects on the rich history of the tree at Hadrian’s Wall – and explains why we shouldn’t flinch from mourning its felling

“I’m not quite sure why trees can have such a powerful hold on us, but it’s a remarkable, almost spiritual phenomenon. We sense they are living things – often venerable, always graceful, occasionally of stunning beauty.”

Read Sean’s piece in full below:

From George I to Charles III, the Sycamore Gap was part of our history | Sean O’Grady

‘Horrifying’ someone could fell tree

Saturday 30 September 2023 08:42 , Matt Mathers

Residents across the UK have been expressing their anger at the felling of the Sycamore Gap Tree in Northumberland.

Stephen Gallen, from Castlederg in Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, said it was “horrifying that someone could destroy something as beautiful as the tree on Hadrian’s wall”.

He also shared a picture of a stunning sycamore tree in his hometown (below):

Watch: Nature expert calls for ‘sycamore gap forest’ to replace felled tree at Hadrian’s Wall

Saturday 30 September 2023 07:48 , Matt Mathers

‘It’s a perfect composition - that tree sitting between those hills and the wall’ says child actor who starred in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

Saturday 30 September 2023 06:00 , Eleanor Noyce

The child actor who played Wulf in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Kevin Costner’s blockbuster that featured the famous Sycamore Gap tree, has spoken of his fond memories of filming at the now-famous landmark.

“It was very sad to hear that the tree had been felled”, Daniel Newman told MailOnline.

“It’s a perfect composition - that tree sitting between those hills and the wall. It was beautiful and perfect as an image alone without the movie to bring it to world attention.

“It looks amazing in the many ways it’s been shown under stars, in silhouette and twilight - of course for so many it’s the Robin Hood movie that brought it to their attention.

“I fondly remember filming Robin Hood there. It was the first day of filming of what would be a magical experience that shaped my life for a long time.”

Why are people so angry about the culling of the Sycamore Gap tree?

Saturday 30 September 2023 21:46 , Lydia Patrick

LBC host argues felling of Sycamore Gap tree represents the ‘cultural glue’ being ‘splintered’

Saturday 30 September 2023 05:00 , Eleanor Noyce

Taking a call from Sam, who labelled discourse about the tree’s felling a “distraction” from important global issues, LBC host Tom Swarbrick argued that this moment represents the “cultural glue” being “splintered.”

“The way people are speaking about it, it’s crazy. It’s like someone has died”, the caller argued.

“It’s a tree at the end of the day, and it seems like…it does feel like a distraction, like something else is being covered up with this story.”

“Of course, there are myriad different things going on in the world. There are whole legions of things happening elsewhere”, Mr Swarbrick replied.

“I’ve chosen to talk about this tree because I think people are genuinely frustrated, angry and upset about what has happened to this tree. I think that general anger and upset is not just about the tree…I think it’s something else.

“I think it is…the cultural glue that is being splintered. The erosion of a collective feeling.

“I think people look around them in this day and age and I think they believe that people around them have a limited understanding of anything other than themselves.”

Sycamore Gap: ‘Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does’, say experts

Saturday 30 September 2023 04:00 , Eleanor Noyce

“Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does,” is the devastating verdict of experts on the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in the aftermath of its destruction.

With police believing it to be a deliberate act of vandalism, the chopping down of the world-famous tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, has triggered widespread outrage and sorrow.

Northumbria Police launched an investigation on Thursday after the majestic Sycamore Gap, which is thought to be around 300 years old, was cut down overnight. The force arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection with the incident but has since released him on bail.

Tara Cobham reports:

Sycamore Gap: ‘Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does’

After 300 years of weather and two world wars, the Sycamore Gap tree could not survive the spite of a saw

Saturday 30 September 2023 03:00 , Eleanor Noyce

In her latest exclusive poem, Frieda Hughes mourns the late, great tree at Hadrian’s Wall – and also muses on what it feels like to be a ‘fugitive’ in London, late at night.

Read more:

300 years of weather, two world wars: the Sycamore Gap tree is gone | Frieda Hughes

From George I to Charles III, the Sycamore Gap tree saw British history unfold

Saturday 30 September 2023 02:00 , Eleanor Noyce

I’m not quite sure why trees can have such a powerful hold on us, but it’s a remarkable, almost spiritual phenomenon. We sense they are living things – often venerable, always graceful, occasionally of stunning beauty.

The sycamore that stood by Hadrian’s Wall for 300 years was chopped down in an apparent wanton – but surely premeditated – act of vandalism. As has been rightly observed, it was handsome enough to be a film star, and its performance in the 1991 version of the tale of Robin Hood was hardly wooden.

Seeing it lying there, stricken, helpless, slowly dying makes one irrationally depressed – it’s only a tree, you try to tell yourself. I’d never met the tree, after all. But, like many of us, it was a sad – even sickening – sight. To those who had some connection with it – a marriage, a scattering of ashes, a habitual resting stop – its loss is more akin to a bereavement. Many tears have been shed.

Two world wars, multiple monarchs, disasters and jubilation: Sean O’Grady reflects on the rich history of the tree at Hadrian’s Wall – and explains why we shouldn’t flinch from mourning its felling:

From George I to Charles III, the Sycamore Gap was part of our history | Sean O’Grady

Hairy Bikers say Sycamore Gap tree culprit ‘murdered spirit of Northumberland’

Saturday 30 September 2023 01:00 , Eleanor Noyce

The Hairy Bikers shared their fury at the apparent “vandalism” of the Sycamore Gap tree after it was felled overnight.

Si King, one half of the duo, said the culprit has “murdered a sentinel of time and elemental spirit of Northumberland”.

“I hope whoever has done that has a conscience,” King said, in a video shared on social media.

“I hope you feel really good about yourself for whatever warped reason you’ve done it... I’m beyond words.”

The iconic tree was seen lying next to Hadrian’s Wall on Thursday morning (28 September).

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the felling.

Hairy Bikers say Sycamore Gap tree culprit ‘murdered spirit of Northumberland’

New shoots expected to grow from Sycamore Gap tree but it ‘won’t be same again’

Saturday 30 September 2023 00:01 , Eleanor Noyce

New shoots are expected to grow from the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree but it will never be the same again, experts have said.

The tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was felled overnight on Thursday in what police believe was an act of vandalism.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Katie Dickinson has more:

New shoots expected to grow from Sycamore Gap tree but it ‘won’t be same again’

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

Friday 29 September 2023 23:00 , Eleanor Noyce

Striking a note of optimism after the iconic Sycamore Gap tree was felled, experts have suggested it could be saved.

In an incident that caused widespread outrage and upset, the world-famous tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was chopped down overnight on Wednesday.

However, all hope is not lost, according to Andrew Poad of the National Trust, who pointed to the health of the ancient Sycamore Gap, which is thought to be around 300 years old, as giving reason to believe the tree could regrow.

Tara Cobham reports:

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

The Sycamore Gap Tree in pictures as nature lovers ‘shocked and saddened’ by felling

Friday 29 September 2023 22:00 , Eleanor Noyce

A tourist attraction, a film location and a symbol of hope - the felled Sycamore Gap tree was many things to many people.

The 300-year-old natural beauty was one of the most photographed trees in the country and an iconic sight next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. However, this week it was felled prompting an outpouring of anger and sorrow, from campaigners and the public alike.

It is not clear what happened yet, and a 16-year-old arrested as part of the investigation has now been released on bail. But the outrage over the tree toppling is still palpable.

Read more:

The Sycamore Gap tree that stood tall for 300 years - in pictures

‘If anything demonstrates the state of society nowadays it is this’

Friday 29 September 2023 21:15 , Eleanor Noyce

“I almost cried when I saw the picture of this iconic tree cruelly cut down. The attached picture was taken 3 years ago”, reader Ian Paton told The Independent.

“People came from miles around. A stunningly beautiful national monument, nothing less.

“Sadly if anything demonstrates the state of society nowadays it is this. My heart breaks.

Tree ‘won’t ever be as good of a tree as it was’, says gardener

Friday 29 September 2023 20:49 , Eleanor Noyce

Rob Ternent, head gardener at The Alnwick Garden in Northumberland, has said the Sycamore Gap tree will start growing again but “won’t ever be the same shape or as good of a tree as it was”.

He said: “It’s worth a try but I think livestock and wildlife will potentially damage it as well. It’ll be very difficult to get it back to the original tree.

“The growing season’s coming to an end now but by spring next year it will have some life in it. It’ll probably be about eight foot tall, but it’ll be lots of singular branches, more bushy.

“It was about 300 years old so it’ll take a long time to get back to that size. It’s a massive shame.”

Man in his 60s arrested following felling of Sycamore Gap tree

Friday 29 September 2023 20:07 , Eleanor Noyce

A man in his 60s has been arrested by officers investigating the felling of the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland, Northumbria Police said.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies, of Northumbria Police, said: “The senseless destruction of what is undoubtedly a world-renowned landmark – and a local treasure – has quite rightly resulted in an outpour shock, horror and anger throughout the North East and further afield.

“I hope this second arrest demonstrates just how seriously we’re taking this situation, and our ongoing commitment to find those responsible and bring them to justice.

“Although another arrest has been made, this investigation is still in the early stages, and we would continue to encourage any members of the public with information which may assist to get in touch.

“If you’ve seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us – I’d implore you to contact us.

“I’d also like to remind the public that this remains a live investigation so, for that reason, please avoid any speculation both in the community and on social media.

“Any information – no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be – could prove absolutely crucial to our enquiries.”

Nature expert calls for ‘sycamore gap forest’ to replace felled tree at Hadrian’s Wall

Friday 29 September 2023 19:45 , Eleanor Noyce

A nature expert has called for a “Sycamore Gap forest” to replace the felled tree at Hadrian’s Wall.

The tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was felled overnight on Thursday in what police believe was an act of vandalism.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Watch:

National Trust: Sycamore Gap tree was ‘very loved and special to many people for many reasons’

Friday 29 September 2023 19:15 , Eleanor Noyce

The National Trust has thanked the public for sharing their messages of sympathy following the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has shared their messages of sympathy and offered their support since we shared the news about the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree. It is clear the tree was very loved and special to many people for many reasons”, the organisation wrote on X.

“Our ranger team have been on site today to collect seeds and cuttings from the tree, and we will be working with N’Land National Park, other partners and the local community to consider plans for the site and the tree in the future.

“We are currently focussed on making the site safe and helping staff and the community come to terms with the news. We ask that people keep away from the site at the current time while we fully assess the fallen tree and carry out the necessary work to ensure it is safe.”

The Sycamore Gap Tree in pictures as nature lovers ‘shocked and saddened’ by felling

Friday 29 September 2023 18:43 , Eleanor Noyce

A tourist attraction, a film location and a symbol of hope - the felled Sycamore Gap tree was many things to many people.

The 300-year-old natural beauty was one of the most photographed trees in the country and an iconic sight next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. However, this week it was felled prompting an outpouring of anger and sorrow, from campaigners and the public alike.

It is not clear what happened yet, and a 16-year-old arrested as part of the investigation has now been released on bail. But the outrage over the tree toppling is still palpable.

Read more:

The Sycamore Gap tree that stood tall for 300 years - in pictures

Sycamore Gap: ‘Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does’, say experts

Friday 29 September 2023 18:10 , Eleanor Noyce

“Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does,” is the devastating verdict of experts on the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in the aftermath of its destruction.

With police believing it to be a deliberate act of vandalism, the chopping down of the world-famous tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, has triggered widespread outrage and sorrow.

Northumbria Police launched an investigation on Thursday after the majestic Sycamore Gap, which is thought to be around 300 years old, was cut down overnight. The force arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection with the incident but has since released him on bail.

Tara Cobham reports:

Sycamore Gap: ‘Minutes to cut down and centuries to grow back, if it ever does’

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

Friday 29 September 2023 17:49 , Eleanor Noyce

Striking a note of optimism after the iconic Sycamore Gap tree was felled, experts have suggested it could be saved.

In an incident that caused widespread outrage and upset, the world-famous tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was chopped down overnight on Wednesday.

However, all hope is not lost, according to Andrew Poad of the National Trust, who pointed to the health of the ancient Sycamore Gap, which is thought to be around 300 years old, as giving reason to believe the tree could regrow.

Tara Cobham reports:

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

Hand-painted stones reveal touching messages left at stump of Sycamore Gap tree

Friday 29 September 2023 17:21 , Eleanor Noyce

Members of the public have left stones carrying messages at the site where the famous Sycamore Gap tree once stood.

Images show hand-painted stones strewn by the stump of the tree, one which reads “miss you, mum.”

The tree appeared in Kevin Costner's 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves and was part of the landscape for 200 years.

The National Trust confirmed that the tree had been cut down overnight and according to Northumbria Police, a 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage in connection with the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree.

LBC host argues felling of Sycamore Gap tree represents the ‘cultural glue’ being ‘splintered'

Friday 29 September 2023 17:07 , Eleanor Noyce

Taking a call from Sam, who labelled discourse about the tree’s felling a “distraction” from important global issues, LBC host Tom Swarbrick argued that this moment represents the “cultural glue” being “splintered.”

“The way people are speaking about it, it’s crazy. It’s like someone has died”, the caller argued.

“It’s a tree at the end of the day, and it seems like…it does feel like a distraction, like something else is being covered up with this story.”

“Of course, there are myriad different things going on in the world. There are whole legions of things happening elsewhere”, Mr Swarbrick replied.

“I’ve chosen to talk about this tree because I think people are genuinely frustrated, angry and upset about what has happened to this tree. I think that general anger and upset is not just about the tree…I think it’s something else.

“I think it is…the cultural glue that is being splintered. The erosion of a collective feeling.

“I think people look around them in this day and age and I think they believe that people around them have a limited understanding of anything other than themselves.”

Local pub manager aiming to create a lasting memorial for ‘symbolic’ tree

Friday 29 September 2023 16:43 , Eleanor Noyce

The manager of a pub a short distance from the famous Sycamore Gap tree has spoken of creating a lasting memorial. The money raised will help to support future projects in the locality, as well as work executed by Northumberland National Park & National Trust.

“It’s quite a popular place for people to propose and for wedding photographs”, Steve Blair, who runs the Twice Brewed Inn, told the BBC.

“It’s so symbolic, you see people sitting on the bankside viewing the tree for hours at a time.”

‘It’s a perfect composition - that tree sitting between those hills and the wall’ says child actor who starred in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

Friday 29 September 2023 16:37 , Eleanor Noyce

The child actor who played Wulf in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Kevin Costner’s blockbuster that featured the famous Sycamore Gap tree, has spoken of his fond memories of filming at the now-famous landmark.

“It was very sad to hear that the tree had been felled”, Daniel Newman told MailOnline.

“It’s a perfect composition - that tree sitting between those hills and the wall. It was beautiful and perfect as an image alone without the movie to bring it to world attention.

“It looks amazing in the many ways it’s been shown under stars, in silhouette and twilight - of course for so many it’s the Robin Hood movie that brought it to their attention.

“I fondly remember filming Robin Hood there. It was the first day of filming of what would be a magical experience that shaped my life for a long time.”

Newcastle United manager: ‘It’s such a beautiful thing, so very sad'

Friday 29 September 2023 16:18 , Eleanor Noyce

The manager of Premier League club Newcastle United has spoken of his sadness at the demise of the Sycamore Gap tree.

“Really saddened by it really. I don’t know quite how to describe it but when I heard the news I was just so disappointed that an act can ruin something that’s there for the pleasure of everybody”, Eddie Howe told BBC Sport.

“It’s such a beautiful thing, so very sad.”

Green Party peer Natalie Bennett: ‘Last survivor, gone'

Friday 29 September 2023 15:54 , Eleanor Noyce

Green Party peer Natalie Bennett has shared a tribute to the fallen Sycamore Gap’s tree.

“Last survivor, gone. A tragically apt metaphor for UK #StateofNature”, Ms Bennett shared via X.

“It’s worth noting that the butchered sycamore tree once stood among many others”.

In pictures: Forensic investigators from Northumbria Police probe Sycamore Gap tree

Friday 29 September 2023 15:38 , Eleanor Noyce

On Friday, a police presence was still at the site of the fallen Sycamore Gap tree, with forensics officers taking measurements and samples from the remains and photographing the area.

One was heard saying: “In 31 years of forensics I’ve never examined a tree.”

MP pays tribute to ‘senseless destruction’ of ‘iconic and beautiful natural landmark’

Friday 29 September 2023 15:16 , Eleanor Noyce

Sharon Hodgson, Labour MP for Washington and Sunderland West, described the deliberate felling of the Sycamore Gap tree as “senseless destruction.”

“Heart-breaking news about the Sycamore Gap tree. A stunning piece of the North East’s imagery has been destroyed overnight.

“This senseless destruction of an iconic and beautiful natural landmark leaves me extremely sad. Why would anyone do such a thing?”

Author asks public to ‘rethink’ relationship with sycamore maple tree

Friday 29 September 2023 15:03 , Eleanor Noyce

An author has asked the public to “rethink” its relationship with the sycamore maple tree following the destruction of the Sycamore Gap.

“In the light of Sycamore Gap, is it time to rethink our relationship with the great sycamore maple, a species often maligned for perceived lack of biodiversity (a myth), its propensity to seed itself freely causing gardeners to curse its fecundity, and for being ‘non-native’”, Paul Wood, author of ‘London’s Street Trees’ and ‘London is a Forest’ wrote on X.

“This last point I find most dispiriting. It is unclear when sycamores were introduced from the near continent, but they have been here for a v long time, & are now a key component of our flora.

“It is true that they do not occur in ancient managed woodlands, but they do otherwise act like a native species and may be one of the saviours of our landscapes as other species, like ash, succumb to pathogens as our elms did within living memory.”

After 300 years of weather and two world wars, the Sycamore Gap tree could not survive the spite of a saw

Friday 29 September 2023 14:54 , Eleanor Noyce

In her latest exclusive poem, Frieda Hughes mourns the late, great tree at Hadrian’s Wall – and also muses on what it feels like to be a ‘fugitive’ in London, late at night.

More here:

300 years of weather, two world wars: the Sycamore Gap tree is gone | Frieda Hughes

Tree’s destruction ‘part of the broader war on nature'

Friday 29 September 2023 14:50 , Eleanor Noyce

Writer Robert Macfarlane has described the Sycamore Gap tree’s destruction as “part of the broader war on nature.”

Speaking on Radio 4’s Today programme on Friday, Mr Macfarlane noted that the tree was savaged on the eve of the publication of the State of Nature report, which details the status of the UK’s wildlife.

“That report was disastrous – one in six species heading for possible extinction. Nature is under attack in these islands and has been for a long time”, he said.

“There’s a line by [the poet] WH Auden written 70 years ago. He says: ‘A culture is no better than its woods.’ Well, we have not looked after our woods well. This is part of the broader war on nature.

“It was a film star – it starred in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves. It was a tree that ashes were scattered under, marriages were made under, and it was a shelter for tired walkers.

“It stood in that gap in the wall, and it survived the winds that howl through that notch. It stood in a wall that was a symbol of repression really, but it flourished there. It was a landmark in the region.”

Woman shares grief after scattering brother’s ashes at Sycamore Gap tree

Friday 29 September 2023 14:44 , Eleanor Noyce

A woman has shared her grief at the Sycamore Gap’s destruction, describing how she scattered her brother’s ashes beside the tree.

“I am grieving all over again. I scattered my brother’s ashes here”, she wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

“This was OUR place. This was a place in which I found calm and solace, my grounding and orientation.

“This place means EVERYTHING to me. This is more than upsetting right now.”

Visualising Sycamore Gap tree helped mother through traumatic birth experience

Friday 29 September 2023 14:31 , Eleanor Noyce

A mother has shared the heartwarming story of how the Sycamore Gap tree helped her through her fertility journey, noting that visualising it helped her through a traumatic birth experience.

“The iconic image of this tree featured in my fertility hypnotherapy sessions when I was asked to find a calm place. It was a place I visited often in visualisations that in turn saw me become pregnant naturally following many failed IVF treatments over nearly seven years”, one mother told The Independent.

“Then when pregnant with triplets, I faced a life-threatening birth, and as the medical staff prepared me to go under anaesthesia, a nurse told me to think of something calm.

“I closed my eyes thinking I was going to die as I was experiencing a huge haemorrhage, and it was this tree that I thought of. Apparently remaining calm is one of the things that helped to save my life because panic would have caused even further blood loss. I always thanked that tree for helping me to get pregnant and helping me to stay calm which helped save my life.”

The Sycamore Gap Tree in pictures as nature lovers ‘shocked and saddened’ by felling

Friday 29 September 2023 14:25 , Eleanor Noyce

A tourist attraction, a film location and a symbol of hope - the felled Sycamore Gap tree was many things to many people.

The 300-year-old natural beauty was one of the most photographed trees in the country and an iconic sight next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. However, this week it was felled prompting an outpouring of anger and sorrow, from campaigners and the public alike.

It is not clear what happened yet, and a 16-year-old arrested as part of the investigation has now been released on bail. But the outrage over the tree toppling is still palpable.

Read more:

The Sycamore Gap tree that stood tall for 300 years - in pictures

Archaeologist ‘sickened’ to hear of Sycamore Gap’s destruction

Friday 29 September 2023 14:22 , Eleanor Noyce

An archaeologist has said he is “sickened” to hear of Sycamore Gap’s destruction.

“I was sickened when I heard about the cutting down of the sycamore tree. I was an archaeologist on the team which excavated Milecastle 39 (Castle Nick) in 1985”, Paul Joslin told The Independent.

“A few of us would frequently sit and have lunch under the tree and then walk over and gaze down at Crag Lough. My heart soared while watching “Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves” as soon as I saw the tree in that scene.

“In 2021, I returned to Northumberland for a long overdue visit. My wife and I stayed in Bardon Mill, the village where I lived while working on the site.

“We then hiked along the wall to Castle Nick and the sycamore tree. I wanted my wife to experience a place which has always held a special meaning and fond memories for my life.

“I took the attached photo of the tree before we headed out. Even devoid of leaves (as it was taken in late November), the tree was majestic and full of life.”

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

Friday 29 September 2023 13:55 , Eleanor Noyce

Striking a note of optimism after the iconic Sycamore Gap tree was felled, experts have suggested it could be saved.

In an incident that caused widespread outrage and upset, the world-famous tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was chopped down overnight on Wednesday.

However, all hope is not lost, according to Andrew Poad of the National Trust, who pointed to the health of the ancient Sycamore Gap, which is thought to be around 300 years old, as giving reason to believe the tree could regrow.

Tara Cobham reports:

Can the Sycamore Gap tree be saved?

Hairy Bikers say Sycamore Gap tree culprit ‘murdered spirit of Northumberland’

Friday 29 September 2023 13:40 , Eleanor Noyce

The Hairy Bikers shared their fury at the apparent “vandalism” of the Sycamore Gap tree after it was felled overnight.

Si King, one half of the duo, said the culprit has “murdered a sentinel of time and elemental spirit of Northumberland”.

“I hope whoever has done that has a conscience,” King said, in a video shared on social media.

“I hope you feel really good about yourself for whatever warped reason you’ve done it... I’m beyond words.”

The iconic tree was seen lying next to Hadrian’s Wall on Thursday morning (28 September).

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the felling.

Hairy Bikers say Sycamore Gap tree culprit ‘murdered spirit of Northumberland’

Crowdfunding page raises more than £1,700 for rejuvenation of Sycamore Gap

Friday 29 September 2023 13:25 , Eleanor Noyce

The news of the Sycamore Gap tree’s destruction was met with dismay and outrage by walkers’ groups on social media.

Walker Alison Hawkins, who was one of the first people to see the tree had been felled on Thursday morning, said: “It was a proper shock. It’s basically the iconic picture that everyone wants to see.”

An online crowdfunding page set up by Northumberland business Alncom for the “rejuvenation of Sycamore Gap” has raised more than £1,700, but the National Trust and National Park Authority have yet to confirm plans for the site.

A National Trust spokesperson said: “We’re very grateful for all the offers of support we’ve received - from people in the North East and much further afield. It is clear this tree was special to many, many people.

“Currently, we are focused on making the site safe, and helping staff and the community come to terms with the news.

“We will be working with Northumberland National Park, other partners and the local community to consider plans for the site and the tree in the future, and we will inform people as soon as we know.”

New shoots expected to grow from Sycamore Gap tree but it ‘won’t be the same again'

Friday 29 September 2023 13:20 , Eleanor Noyce

New shoots are expected to grow from the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree but it will never be the same again, experts have said.

National Trust general manager Andrew Poad told BBC Breakfast the stump was “healthy” and staff might be able to coppice the tree, a technique allowing new shoots to grow from the base of a trunk.

He said: “It’s a very healthy tree, we can see that now, because of the condition of the stump, it may well regrow a coppice from the stump, and if we could nurture that then that might be one of the best outcomes, and then we keep the tree.”

Rob Ternent, head gardener at The Alnwick Garden in Northumberland, said the tree will start growing again but “won’t ever be the same shape or as good of a tree as it was”.

“It’s worth a try but I think livestock and wildlife will potentially damage it as well. It’ll be very difficult to get it back to the original tree”, he said.

“The growing season’s coming to an end now but by spring next year it will have some life in it. It’ll probably be about eight foot tall, but it’ll be lots of singular branches, more bushy.

“It was about 300 years old so it’ll take a long time to get back to that size. It’s a massive shame.”

Comment: The Sycamore Gap tree saw British history unfold

Friday 29 September 2023 12:44 , Sean O’Grady

I’m not quite sure why trees can have such a powerful hold on us, but it’s a remarkable, almost spiritual phenomenon. We sense they are living things – often venerable, always graceful, occasionally of stunning beauty.

The sycamore that stood by Hadrian’s Wall for three hundred years was chopped down in an apparent wanton – but surely premeditated – act of vandalism. As has been rightly observed, it was handsome enough to be a film star, and its performance in the 1991 version of the tale of Robin Hood was hardly wooden.

Seeing it lying there, stricken, helpless, slowing dying makes one irrationally depressed – it’s only a tree, you try to tell yourself. I’d never met the tree, after all. But, like many of us, it was a sad – even sickening – sight. To those who had some connection with it – a marriage, a scattering of ashes, a habitual resting stop – its loss is more akin to a bereavement. Many tears have been shed.

Read more here:

From George I to Charles III, the Sycamore Gap was part of our history | Sean O’Grady

Watch: GB News host says Sycamore Gap is ‘just a tree’

Friday 29 September 2023 12:00 , Tara Cobham

Black and white picture of majestic Sycamore Gap captures ‘dark mood'

Friday 29 September 2023 11:49 , Tara Cobham

A black and white picture of the majestic Sycamore Gap in 2022 has been shared with The Independent.

In the wake of the tree’s felling, photographer Michael Palmer said: “I think this pretty much captures my dark mood after yesterday's events.”

Tree ‘won’t ever be as good of a tree as it was’, says gardener

Friday 29 September 2023 11:15 , Tara Cobham

Rob Ternent, head gardener at The Alnwick Garden in Northumberland, has said the Sycamore Gap tree will start growing again but “won’t ever be the same shape or as good of a tree as it was”.

He said: “It’s worth a try but I think livestock and wildlife will potentially damage it as well. It’ll be very difficult to get it back to the original tree.

“The growing season’s coming to an end now but by spring next year it will have some life in it. It’ll probably be about eight foot tall, but it’ll be lots of singular branches, more bushy.

“It was about 300 years old so it’ll take a long time to get back to that size. It’s a massive shame.”

‘Incandescent’ Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner

Friday 29 September 2023 11:00 , Tara Cobham

The Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner said she is “incandescent” at what “looks like a deliberate act of vandalism”.

Kim McGuinness said on Thursday: "I’m devastated that the famous Sycamore is gone. That tree was ours. It was an iconic North East landmark standing tall in our beautiful Northumberland.

“I am incandescent that this looks like a deliberate act of vandalism. I’ll be raising this personally today.

“I know Northumbria Police are at the scene and officers will do their utmost to catch whoever is behind this. Terrible news."

Send your favourite tree pictures to The Independent

Friday 29 September 2023 10:45 , Tara Cobham

In light of the heartbreaking felling of the Sycamore Gap Tree, we're asking for pictures of your favourite trees.

Your response could be used for an article on The Independent.

Send your best tree pictures to tara.coham@independent.co.uk or post on the below Twitter thread.

Watch: Iconic tree at Hadrian’s Wall chopped down in apparent act of vandalism

Friday 29 September 2023 10:43 , Tara Cobham

Northumberland printmaker produces piece of art in memory of tree

Friday 29 September 2023 10:34 , Tara Cobham

A Northumberland printmaker has produced a piece of art in memory of the Sycamore Gap tree after its felling.

Pinks, oranges and pinks infused the work by the artist Rebecca Vincent, which has been posted on Twitter by #WOMENSART.

Watch: Hairy Bikers say tree culprit ‘murdered spirit of Northumberland’

Friday 29 September 2023 10:30 , Tara Cobham

Latest Northumbria Police statement

Friday 29 September 2023 10:20 , Tara Cobham

Northumbria Police said its inquiries into the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree are continuing on Friday morning.

In a statement, the force added: “A 16-year-old male was arrested in connection with the incident. He has since been released on police bail, pending further inquiries.”

In pictures: Sycamore Gap tree before and after felling

Friday 29 September 2023 10:17 , Tara Cobham

Tree felling is ‘senseless act of vandalism’ says Shadow Security Minister

Friday 29 September 2023 10:14 , Tara Cobham

Dan Jarvis, Labour MP for Barnsley Central and Shadow Security Minister, told of his hopes of finding the culprit who committed the “senseless act of vandalism”.

He wrote on Twitter: “Somebody, and I very much hope we will find out who... has cut down one of the most famous trees in the North, the tree at Sycamore Gap by Hadrian's Wall. A senseless act of vandalism.”

Arrested boy, 16, now released on bail

Friday 29 September 2023 09:54 , Tara Cobham

A 16-year-old boy who was arrested in connection with the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree has now been released on bail “pending further enquiries”, Northumbria Police has said.

A spokesperson for the force said: “A 16-year-old male was arrested in connection with the incident. He has since been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.”

They added the teenager is currently scheduled to report back to police in late November.