Trial Opens for Men Accused of Destroying Britain’s Iconic Hadrian’s Wall Sycamore
The trial of two men accused of destroying a beloved sycamore tree near Hadrian’s Wall began Monday at Newcastle Crown Court, the UK, The Associated Press reports.
The tree, famously featured in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, was a significant landmark and popular tourist attraction in Northumberland National Park, drawing visitors from across the globe.
Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, both plead not guilty to two counts of criminal damage. The prosecution alleges the damage caused exceeds £620,000 ($790,000) due to the tree’s significant value, and an additional £1,100 ($1,400) in damage to the ancient Roman wall itself. The prosecution’s case will detail the alleged motivation behind the destruction, a detail currently withheld to protect the integrity of the court proceedings and the rights of the accused.
The felling of the Sycamore Gap tree last autumn sparked widespread public anger and sorrow. The tree held deep personal significance for countless individuals, serving as a backdrop for romantic milestones, family gatherings, and even the scattering of loved ones’ ashes. Before its destruction, the tree was the main draw for 80% of visitors to the Northumberland National Park visitor centre, according to CEO Tony Gates.
The tree’s picturesque setting, nestled in a dip between two hills along the Hadrian’s Wall path, had made it a subject of countless photographs and a cherished stop on the popular walking route. Local resident Sarah Cape shared her poignant memories of the tree, highlighting its role in her relationship, her daughter’s early years, and providing solace during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The felled tree is currently stored at a National Trust property. A section of its trunk is on display at the park’s visitor centre, and saplings grown from its seeds are set to be planted across the UK. Incredibly, numerous shoots have already sprouted from the tree stump, raising hopes for its eventual regeneration.
