Boy, 16, arrested in connection with felling of Sycamore Gap tree | UK News

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the felling of the beloved Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland, police have said.

The teenager remains in custody and is assisting officers with their inquires.

Northumbrians woke up to the devastating sight of the iconic tree, situated beside Hadrian’s Wall, on its side after it was chopped down overnight.

It was one of the most photographed in the UK, thanks to its stunning location in the dip between two hills, and it was made famous when it appeared in Kevin Costner’s 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.

Superintendent Kevin Waring of Northumbria Police said: ‘This is a world-renowned landmark and the events of today have caused significant shock, sadness and anger throughout the local community and beyond.

‘An investigation was immediately launched following this vandalism, and this afternoon we have arrested one suspect in connection with our enquiries.

‘Given our investigation remains at a very early stage, we are keeping an open mind. I am appealing to the public for information to assist us – if you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, please let us know.’

Sycamore Gap is looked after by both the Northumberland National Park and National Trust.

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.’

The news sparked dismay among walkers’ groups on social media, who described it as an ‘awful moment’ and said they were ‘heartbroken’.

Hairy Biker Si King voiced his sadness over the loss of the tree, which won the 2016 English Tree of the Year award, in a video posted on social media.

The presenter, who is from the village of Kibblesworth in the north-east, said: ‘I hope whoever’s done that has a conscience, because you’ve just murdered a sentinel of time and elemental spirit of Northumberland.

‘I hope you feel really good about yourself, for whatever warped reason you’ve done it.’

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