Pair guilty of cutting down Sycamore Gap tree

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 4:55 pm

**Sycamore Gap Tree Felling: Two Men Found Guilty, Facing Prison**

In a case that has captured international attention, two men have been found guilty of cutting down the iconic Sycamore Gap tree, a beloved landmark in Northumberland, England. Daniel Michael Graham and Adam Carruthers now face up to 10 years in prison for their actions, which authorities have condemned as "mindless thuggery."

The Sycamore Gap tree, which stood for over a century in a dip along Hadrian's Wall, was felled in September 2023. The tree's unique location on the historic Roman wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, made it a popular and recognizable sight. Its destruction sparked widespread outrage and grief.

Northumberland Police Superintendent Kevin Waring expressed the sentiment of many, stating that the act was "mindless vandalism." Prosecutors revealed that the men, after cutting down the tree with a chainsaw under the cover of darkness, reveled in the public outcry their actions caused. They exchanged messages the following day, seemingly enjoying the negative attention.

Both Graham and Carruthers were convicted of two counts of criminal damage. They were taken back into custody after the verdict for their "own protection" and are scheduled to be sentenced in July. The case highlights the deep emotional connection people have with natural landmarks and the severe consequences of their destruction. The Sycamore Gap tree was planted in the late 1800s and became a symbol of the area. The loss of the tree has been felt keenly by the public, as evidenced by the international reaction of disapproval and anger.

Keywords: Sycamore Gap tree, Hadrian's Wall, tree felling, Northumberland, Daniel Michael Graham, Adam Carruthers, criminal damage, vandalism, landmark, UNESCO World Heritage Site, prison sentence, chainsaw, public outcry, England, news, crime, guilty, sentencing, Roman wall, historic site.

Full Story