Trial Commences for Two Suspects in Sycamore Gap Tree Destruction

The trial of two men accused of illegally cutting down the historically significant Sycamore Gap tree has opened, sparking both legal discussions and widespread mourning among the public.

The courtroom of Newcastle Crown Court filled with a mix of tension and anticipation as the trial for two men, Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, began on April 29, 2025. The defendants have pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal destruction surrounding the felling of the beloved Sycamore Gap tree, a cherished icon standing along Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tree was discovered cut down in September 2023, leaving a void that has been felt well beyond the local community. The landmark, an estimated 200 years old, was renowned not just for its beauty but as a site for celebrations, memorials, and joy for families visiting the area. Its presence featured prominently in popular culture, most notably in the 1991 film “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves."

The trial had been delayed prior, as Graham's health issues prevented it from occurring in December 2024. Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney had previously urged the public to refrain from speculation regarding the case, recognizing the strong public sentiment surrounding the tree's unlawful destruction.

In a bittersweet turn, August 2024 saw rangers discovering saplings sprouting near the tree’s remnants, prompting hope for the tree’s legacy to continue. The National Trust plans to distribute 49 saplings next year—symbolically reflecting the original tree's height of 49 feet—encouraging the community to nurture the new generation in honor of an emblematic giant.

As the trial unfolds, opinions on the case remain strong, with many advocating for justice not only for the tree but for the cultural heritage it represented. This remains a developing story, and updates will follow as the trial progresses.