Two men, Daniel Graham, 38, and Adam Carruthers, 31, were seen leaving Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on May 15, 2024, following their arraignment for the criminal damage of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree, valued at over £620,000.
The pair attempted to conceal their identities with balaclavas and sunglasses as they exited the court, evading photographers. The centuries-old tree, famous for its appearance in Robin Hood: The Prince of Thieves, was cut down last September, sparking national outrage.
Graham and Carruthers were charged last month after the tree was deliberately vandalized, which police characterized as a “deliberate act of vandalism.” Standing next to Hadrian’s Wall for 200 years, the 50ft tree was a beloved landmark, featured in Bryan Adams’ music video for “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” and a popular spot for marriage proposals.
Following the felling of the tree overnight on September 27 to 28, Northumbria Police arrested several individuals, but a teenager and a man in his 60s were later cleared of any charges. The tree was removed by crane after being de-limbed by tree surgeons, as it was too large to transport intact.
Although the stump remains in place, scientists believe new shoots may eventually grow, potentially restoring the tree’s stature after a long wait. Andrew Poad, general manager for the National Trust at the site, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and noted the tree’s significance to many visitors.