Two Men Convicted for Felling Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree England

The Sycamore Gap tree, a beloved and iconic landmark along Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, was deliberately cut down by Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, causing national outrage due to its cultural and historical significance. The 150-year-old tree, famous for appearances in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Bryan Adams' music video, was felled using a chainsaw during a stormy night in September 2023, with the act recorded on video that was shown in court. The destruction not only symbolized a loss to the landscape but also caused damage to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall, intensifying public anger. Graham, described as a social outcast with a complicated personal life and no close friends, was identified partly through his mobile phone movements and complex relationships. Despite the defendants' dismissive attitudes towards the tree, the public mourned its loss deeply, viewing it as a symbol of nature's fragility and a cherished part of northeast England's identity. The incident has sparked reflection on humanity's impact on nature and the enduring legacy of the tree beyond its physical presence.