High-Profile Trial Begins for Alleged Felling of Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree
April 28, 2025
Despite the loss of the tree, local businesses report stable visitor numbers, and there is hope for the tree's legacy through the planting of saplings across the UK.
Following its felling, the tree was removed for safety and regrowth efforts, with parts of it displayed at a visitor center and seedlings distributed for planting.
The emotional attachment the public has to the Sycamore Gap tree, a site for personal milestones, underscores the case's significance beyond environmental damage.
The case has attracted global media attention, particularly after the tree, which had stood for over a century, was discovered felled.
Two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, are on trial for allegedly felling the iconic Sycamore Gap tree on Hadrian's Wall, an act described by the prosecution as a 'mindless criminal act.'
Evidence against the defendants includes a mobile phone video of the incident and photographs showing a wedge in Graham's vehicle, although the actual wedge has not been recovered.
Witnesses confirmed that the tree was standing shortly before it was cut down, reinforcing the timeline of events presented in court.
The trial, which began on April 28, 2025, is expected to last several days due to the intense public outcry and emotional connection to the site.
The trial is set to resume on April 30, 2025, as the jury prepares to examine the evidence presented thus far.
Taking place at Newcastle Crown Court, the trial is presided over by Mrs. Justice Lambert, with a jury panel of 25 potential jurors selected after inquiries into their biases.
Originally scheduled for December 2023, the trial was postponed due to Graham's health issues, highlighting the public's interest in having both defendants tried together.
This case is significant as it could set a legal precedent for prosecuting acts of environmental or heritage destruction in the UK.
Summary based on 43 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Apr 29, 2025
Sycamore Gap trial: Accused kept tree wedge as trophy, jury told
The New York Times • Apr 29, 2025
Trial Opens for 2 Men Accused of Felling Sycamore Gap Tree
The Guardian • Apr 29, 2025
Two men felled Sycamore Gap tree in ‘mindless’ criminal act, court told
BBC News • Apr 29, 2025
Sycamore Gap tree felling trial under way