Sycamore Gap: Iconic Robin Hood Tree on Hadrian’s Wall chopped down | UK News
A world-famous tree which featured in iconic 1991 Hollywood blockbuster Robin Hood Prince of Thieves is believed to have been deliberately cut down overnight.
The so-called ‘Robin Hood’ tree is located at ‘Sycamore Gap’, a dramatic dip along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland.
The tree – one of the most photographed in England – was found felled early this morning.
Police are now investigating whether a criminal offence has taken place.
The Northumberland National Park Authority said: ‘(We) can confirm that sadly, the famous tree at Sycamore Gap has come down over night. We have reason to believe it has been deliberately felled.
‘We are working with the relevant agencies and partners with an interest in this iconic North East landmark and will issue more details once they are known.’
People have been asked to avoid the site while the national park authority works with partners ‘to identify what happened and make the site safe.’
Sycamore Gap is looked after by both the Northumberland National Park and National Trust.
The news has sparked dismay among walkers’ groups on social media, who described it as an ‘awful moment’ and said they were ‘heartbroken’.
Northumberland County Councillor, Nick Oliver, said the incident at the tourist hotspot was ‘shocking’.
Mr Oliver, who represents nearby Corbridge ward, said: ‘It is incomprehensible something like this could happen.
‘Looking at the pictures, a tree that big and healthy doesn’t just fall down – it’s been felled.
‘It’s always a popular spot and every day you see hundreds of people doing the walk because it’s so iconic.
‘I just can’t understand it.’
A Northumbria police spokesperson confirmed an investigation had been launched following damage to the tree.
‘Enquiries are ongoing to establish whether any criminal offences have been committed.’
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