In England, a 16-year-old boy was apprehended on Thursday in connection with the intentional felling of a renowned tree that had proudly stood for nearly two centuries.
This sycamore tree held particular significance as it stood adjacent to the Roman-era Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in northeastern England. It had gained fame by appearing in Kevin Costner’s 1991 blockbuster film ‘Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.’
Every year, thousands of visitors traverse Hadrian’s Wall, with many pausing to admire and capture images of the Sycamore Gap tree.
The deliberate destruction of this tree provoked widespread outrage among local residents and conservationists alike.
Images captured at the scene early on Thursday revealed that the tree had been cut down near its base, leaving the remainder of it lying on its side.
The local police issued a statement, confirming that the famous Sycamore Gap tree had sadly fallen overnight, and they had reason to believe it was deliberately felled. They are collaborating with relevant agencies and partners associated with this iconic landmark in the North East, promising to provide more details as they become available.
Reportedly, the sycamore, recognized as the Woodland Trust’s Tree of the Year in 2016, had been reduced to a short stump, while the rest of the tree was left near the wall.
The Northumberland National Park authority has urged the public to refrain from visiting the fallen tree.
Andrew Poad, the National Trust general manager, expressed that the tree had been a vital and iconic part of the landscape for nearly two centuries and held significant meaning for the local community.
Superintendent Kevin Waring was quoted as saying, “The events of today have caused significant shock, sadness, and anger throughout the local community and beyond.”
Hadrian’s Wall, a 73-mile (118-kilometer) stone wall spanning England from the west coast to the east coast, remains a historic monument of great importance.
