LONDON — Although it wasn’t the largest or the oldest tree in Britain, the magnificent sycamore that had flourished for 150 years along Hadrian’s Wall in northern England held a special place in the hearts of many. This splendid tree, located in a valley between two hills, became a cherished spot for significant moments, including first kisses, marriage proposals, and even a place where people scattered the ashes of their loved ones.
Last fall, the local community and tree enthusiasts were devastated to learn that the beloved sycamore had been felled under the cover of darkness. The shocking news left many questioning the reasons behind this seemingly pointless act and wondering who would commit such a crime. As of Monday, the courts are expected to shed light on this matter.
Two defendants are set to face trial at Newcastle Crown Court, charged with the tree’s destruction and damage to the historical structure of Hadrian’s Wall, which was constructed by Emperor Hadrian in A.D. 122 to defend the Roman Empire’s northwestern borders. Details surrounding the case remain sparse, including any potential motives, in order to preserve the trial’s integrity and protect the rights of the accused.
Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, have pleaded not guilty to two counts of criminal damage. According to the prosecution, the tree’s worth is estimated to exceed £620,000 (around $790,000), while the damages to Hadrian’s Wall are valued at £1,100 (approximately $1,400). Prosecutor Rebecca Brown remarked during a previous court session that the severity of the case is likely known to many, emphasizing the deliberate nature of the act, which took place on September 28 last year, and the subsequent harm caused to a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
News of the tree’s destruction spread quickly, sending shockwaves throughout the beautiful Northumberland region. “I am still struggling to accept that the tree is gone,” commented local resident Catherine Cape. “It’s infuriating, and I cannot fathom why someone would choose to destroy such a beautiful part of nature.”
The sycamore gained recognition after appearing in Kevin Costner’s 1991 movie “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,” and it had become a significant attraction for tourists. Tony Gates, chief executive of Northumberland National Park, mentioned that prior to the tree’s removal, 80% of visitor inquiries were related to those intending to see the iconic sycamore.
The tree’s expansive canopy, nestled between the hills, had long been a favorite for photographers and was a picturesque resting point for walkers trekking along the historical wall. Cape shared personal memories tied to the tree, recalling how she and her husband chose it for their early dates, watched their daughter take her first steps there, and met family during the pandemic when indoor gatherings were restricted.
Following the tree’s removal, the cabin that Cape owns, which had previously seen a surge in bookings due to the tree’s popularity, experienced a decline, although reservations later returned to normal levels. The absence of the tree has altered her routine, prompting her to take a different route as she can’t bear to see the vacant spot where the tree once thrived.
The sycamore was dismantled using a crane and transported to a National Trust property for safe keeping. A portion of its trunk has been displayed at the park’s visitor center, and seeds collected from the tree are being distributed for planting across the United Kingdom.
Interestingly, there is hope for the tree’s legacy to continue; over two dozen shoots have been found sprouting from the stump where the sycamore once stood. “The legacy of the tree persists, but it will never regain its former grandeur in our lifetime,” Cape reflected. “It will always live on, albeit in a different form.”
