'Mindless act of vandalism'

A POLICE chief has branded the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree a “mindless act of vandalism” after two men were convicted of criminal damage over the cutting down of the world-famous landmark.

- By ROB KENNEDY

Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, were yesterday remanded in custody and facing prison sentences for the senseless act in Northumberland.

Jurors found them guilty of causing criminal damage to the tree and Hadrian's Wall, on to which it toppled after one of the took a chainsaw to it while the other filmed the shocking act.

Northumbria Police, the Crown Prosecution Service, the National Trust, Historic England, the Northumberland National Park Authority and the Police and Crime Commissioner have all released statements after the verdicts.

Superintendent Kevin Waring, of Northumbria Police, said: “The Sycamore Gap tree was an iconic landmark - recognisable across the world - and which held a special place in the hearts of many.

“In September 2023, we woke to the devastating news that the tree had been cut down. Since then, we have been carrying out a meticulous investigation to identify those responsible.

“Due to the unwavering commitment of those involved in the case, today we have seen two men be found guilty of damaging not only the tree but also Hadrian's Wall.