Two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, have been charged with cutting down the popular 150-year-old Sycamore Gap tree that fell over on Hadrian’s Wall in northern England. Both men were charged with causing criminal damage and damaging the wall built in A.D. 122 by Emperor Hadrian. They were ordered to appear in Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on May 15. The tree’s iconic location between two hills made it a popular subject for landscape photographers and a destination along the path along the wall. It gained further fame after being featured in Kevin Costner’s 1991 film “Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.”
The nighttime felling of the tree caused widespread outrage, with police labeling it as a deliberate act of vandalism. Northumbria Police Superintendent Kevin Waring described it as “an incredibly sad day” when the tree was discovered on the ground. A hiker who was among the first to see it expressed shock at the destruction. Graham and Carruthers were arrested in October and released on bail, with charges being brought against them more than six months later. Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney acknowledged the strong emotions in the local community and beyond, urging people to refrain from making comments or speculating that could impact the criminal case.
The National Trust, which owns the land where the tree stood, stated that it would take up to three years to determine if new growth would sprout from the sycamore’s stump. The trust removed the tree and collected seeds and cuttings in the hopes of planting them at a later date. The sycamore tree was a beloved and iconic symbol in the area, with many mourning its loss and expressing disappointment at the deliberate act of destruction. The tree’s presence on Hadrian’s Wall brought visitors from near and far, further enhancing its significance and value to the local community.
The Sycamore Gap tree had stood for 150 years, becoming a symbol and a landmark along Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its majestic canopy and picturesque location made it a favorite subject for photographers and a popular destination for tourists and hikers. The tree’s fame was further elevated when it appeared in a well-known Hollywood film, adding to its allure and cultural significance. The deliberate act of cutting down such an iconic tree sparked outrage and disbelief among those who cherished its presence and the memories associated with it.
The charges brought against Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers highlighted the severity of their actions and the impact it had on the local community and the preservation of historical sites. The lengthy process of bringing charges against the culprits showcased the thorough investigation carried out by authorities to hold them accountable for their vandalism. While efforts to replant seeds and cuttings from the tree are underway, the loss of such a significant and beloved landmark remains deeply felt. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting cultural and historical sites for future generations, and the consequences of willful destruction of such heritage.
