Two Men Convicted for Cutting Down Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree

In a shocking case that gripped the nation, two men have been found guilty of the deliberate felling of the famed Sycamore Gap tree in northern England.

 

On Friday, Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, were convicted by a Newcastle Crown Court jury, bringing closure to a saga that has sparked widespread sorrow. The iconic tree, a historic landmark flanking Hadrian’s Wall—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—was discovered cut down on September 28, 2023. Despite their denials, prosecutors emphasized that the pair’s actions represented a "moronic mission" that led to severe public backlash.

During the trial, prosecutor Richard Wright detailed how the men had traveled from Carlisle to the tree site, armed with a chainsaw, to commit what the court described as an "act of deliberate and mindless criminal damage." Notably, they documented their actions, filming the felling on a cellphone, which ultimately played a significant role in the case against them. The evidence presented included footage of the tree being cut down at night and images of a wooden wedge found in Graham’s car, indicating his ownership of a piece from the tree.

In a concerning twist, messages between Graham and Carruthers revealed they had taken delight in the media frenzy that followed the tree's destruction, reflecting their lack of remorse. The prosecution made a poignant reminder of the tree's significance, which had stood for over a century, serving as a cultural touchstone and symbol of tranquility for both locals and international visitors. It was also made famous by its appearance in the 1991 movie "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves."

The Sycamore Gap tree was planted in the 1800s and had become an integral part of the landscape, with many cherishing the memories tied to it. Sentencing for the two men is scheduled for July 15, and the overwhelming sentiment of loss continues to resonate across Britain. As the investigation unfolds further, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the profound connection individuals have to nature and the historical significance of iconic landmarks.