Two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, were convicted on Friday for the illegal felling of the beloved Sycamore Gap tree in northern England, an incident that has triggered outrage across the nation. The tree, recognized for its historical and aesthetic significance, was cut down on September 28, 2023, prompting widespread public mourning and anger.
During the trial, held at Newcastle Crown Court, prosecutor Richard Wright described the actions of Graham, 39, and Carruthers, 32, as a "moronic mission." The pair denied involvement in the crime but were found guilty of criminal damage. Evidence revealed that they traveled from Carlisle to the iconic site near Hadrian's Wall—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and filmed their act using a cellphone.
Details presented to the court revealed that Graham kept a piece of the tree trunk as a trophy and exchanged messages with Carruthers that showed their enjoyment of the media coverage following the incident. The Sycamore Gap tree, over 100 years old, was a popular landmark featured in films, including “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.” Witnesses described it as a significant landmark for both locals and tourists, situated in a picturesque valley.
On the night of its destruction, the tree was felled swiftly using a chainsaw. Footage captured by Graham’s cellphone illustrated the crime, showcasing the operation that took place under darkness. The men will face sentencing on July 15. The shockwaves from this incident are still being felt, raising questions about the future of cultural landmarks in the UK. This is an evolving story, and updates will follow as they develop.
During the trial, held at Newcastle Crown Court, prosecutor Richard Wright described the actions of Graham, 39, and Carruthers, 32, as a "moronic mission." The pair denied involvement in the crime but were found guilty of criminal damage. Evidence revealed that they traveled from Carlisle to the iconic site near Hadrian's Wall—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and filmed their act using a cellphone.
Details presented to the court revealed that Graham kept a piece of the tree trunk as a trophy and exchanged messages with Carruthers that showed their enjoyment of the media coverage following the incident. The Sycamore Gap tree, over 100 years old, was a popular landmark featured in films, including “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.” Witnesses described it as a significant landmark for both locals and tourists, situated in a picturesque valley.
On the night of its destruction, the tree was felled swiftly using a chainsaw. Footage captured by Graham’s cellphone illustrated the crime, showcasing the operation that took place under darkness. The men will face sentencing on July 15. The shockwaves from this incident are still being felt, raising questions about the future of cultural landmarks in the UK. This is an evolving story, and updates will follow as they develop.
