A photo from June 4, 2023, captures the Sycamore Gap tree standing beside Hadrian’s Wall in northern England. Only months later, on a windy night, someone cut it down. CBC
Two men in Britain who illegally cut down the famous Sycamore Gap tree have been sentenced to four years and three months in prison. The historic tree, which had stood proudly for almost 150 years, was a treasured part of the landscape near Hadrian’s Wall in northern England.
The two men, Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, received their punishment on Tuesday after being found guilty in May of causing criminal damage. They were charged for destroying the tree and damaging the ancient Roman wall nearby. Each of them had been in custody for several months, which will be counted toward their sentence.
A National Loss
The incident happened on September 28, 2023, inside Northumberland National Park. The Sycamore Gap tree wasn’t Britain’s largest or oldest tree, but its striking location—nestled between two hills along Hadrian’s Wall—made it incredibly special. It was part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and loved by tourists, photographers, and locals. Many even chose the spot to scatter ashes of their loved ones.
The tree gained worldwide fame after appearing in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, starring Kevin Costner.
The Crime and the Trial
Justice Christina Lambert, who oversaw the trial at Newcastle Crown Court, said both men were equally responsible. Carruthers operated the chainsaw, and Graham filmed the act. Even though Carruthers had no prior record, the judge said their roles in the crime were equally serious.
Despite both men claiming they were at home when the tree fell, strong evidence pointed to their guilt. Investigators found a video of the incident on Graham’s phone, taken near the site. GPS data placed Graham’s Range Rover close to the tree around the same time. Digital records showed both men returning home soon after the felling.
No Clear Motive
The court didn’t hear a clear reason for the act. However, prosecutor Richard Wright suggested they may have done it for attention or as a joke. He described the act as a “moronic mission.” A message Carruthers sent to his girlfriend after receiving a video of their newborn hinted at his attitude. He responded, “I’ve got a better video than that,” referring to the tree cutting footage.
The judge criticized the two for their “sheer bravado” and said they seemed to enjoy the media attention after the act.
A Piece of the Tree Lives On
While the tree itself is gone, a large section of its trunk is now on display at Northumberland National Park. Artist Charlie Whinney created an art installation from the remaining wood. Visitors now have a chance to see and even interact with a piece of the once-living landmark.
