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Press release

Statement on the outcome of the Sycamore Gap trial

Published:
08 May 2025
Sycamore Tree in a dip in Hadrian's Wall
Sycamore Gap at Hadrian's Wall and Housesteads Fort, Northumberland | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Our response to the outcome of the trial concerning the Sycamore Gap tree at Hadrian's Wall, Northumberland, which was illegally felled in September 2023.

A National Trust spokesperson said: "We would like to thank Northumbria Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for bringing this case to a resolution.

"The needless felling of the Sycamore Gap tree shocked people around the country and overseas, demonstrating the powerful connection between people and our natural heritage. It was felt particularly deeply here in the north east of England where the tree was an emblem of the region and the backdrop to many personal memories.

"Our focus now is on creating a positive legacy for the tree, working in partnership with others. This includes planting the 49 'Trees of Hope' grown from the original sycamore in communities across the UK later this year."

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