Man Denies £620,000 Vandalism of Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree
Adam Carruthers, 31, from Wigton, Cumbria, has fiercely denied wrecking the famous Sycamore Gap tree. The landmark, worth over £620,000, was vandalised on the night of September 28, 2023, sending shockwaves through Northumberland and beyond.
Historic Sycamore Gap Tree Axe Attack Sparks Outrage
The Sycamore Gap tree, immortalised in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, symbolizes natural beauty and British heritage. Its sudden destruction sparked national outrage from locals and conservationists alike.
Co-Accused Absent as Case Heads to Newcastle Crown Court
Appearing in Newcastle Crown Court on June 12, Carruthers also denied causing £1,144 worth of damage to the nearby Hadrian’s Wall — a UNESCO World Heritage Site harmed during the tree’s fall.
Notably, co-accused Daniel Graham, 38, from Carlisle, was missing from the hearing. His barrister said Graham was detained and could not attend. Graham had pleaded not guilty at a magistrates’ court last month.
National Trust Stakes Claim, Trial Set for December
Both the Sycamore Gap tree and Hadrian’s Wall are cared for by the National Trust, who back the charges. Judge Paul Sloan KC granted Carruthers conditional bail and set a trial date for December 3, with a case management hearing due August 27.
