Determined Age of Illegally Cut Down Robin Hood's Tree
The Sycamore Gap Tree, a beloved landmark and popular photo spot situated on Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, met an unfortunate end in September 2023. This iconic tree, which had stood for at least 100 to 120 years, gained worldwide fame due to a scene in the Hollywood film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" starring Kevin Costner.
The Sycamore Gap Tree, a sycamore tree with two trunks that merged after about 30 to 35 years, was approximately 100 to 120 years old before its illegal felling. Experts from Historic England determined the age of the tree by counting its tree rings.
The act of illegally felling the Sycamore Gap Tree caused damage to Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD. The wall served as a defensive fortification and trade route control. Along with the Antonine Wall to the north and German Limes sections, Hadrian's Wall is one of the most significant historical sites in the UK.
The two individuals responsible for the illegal felling were recently sentenced to over four years each in prison. One of the convicted men's lawyers stated that the crime was "unfortunately, just a drunken stupidity". However, the prosecution described the act as senseless vandalism.
Interestingly, one of the culprits blamed his co-defendant for the crime, while the co-defendant was claimed to have just been along for the ride. The exact details of their involvement remain unclear.
The Sycamore Gap Tree's fall onto the remains of Hadrian's Wall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving our historical sites and natural landmarks. The Sycamore Gap Tree's loss is a significant one, not just for the UK, but for the world.
