The most well-known tree in the UK is the sycamore gap, which is why many people were incensed when it was cut down unlawfully. However, there may now be hope for its survival.
There is now optimism that the Sycamore Gap tree in northern England may “live on” after fresh life was discovered at the site of the cut tree.
The 200-year-old sycamore was a popular spot for strolls and picnics because of its picturesque location next to Hadrian’s Wall.
It was also featured in a ton of Instagram photos and at least one feature film, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, starring Kevin Costner.
The tree, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was discovered to have been destroyed in September 2023 after growing for more than 200 years in a lovely dip in the Northumberland landscape next to Hadrian’s Wall.
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Ten months ago, the cherished landmark was forcibly removed in an act of vandalism that caused indignation throughout the United Kingdom.
However, there is now new optimism that the tree, which was situated in a dip in the famous Hadrian’s Wall in Rome, will survive, as eight new shoots have appeared from the stump’s base.
“I’ve done this walk several times over the last year, but this time it was different; there was something new—the trunk was showing signs of regeneration,” said Gary Pickles.
“I remember hurriedly declaring that the tree was gone when I first arrived at the scene and saw it had been cut down. I hope I may now declare that it has returned.”
Between one and six little leaves, each reaching two to four centimeters in height, are present on each of the tiny new shoots.
Even though it’s still early, there’s a chance that the new sprouts around the original stump could grow into major new trees if given the chance to do so.
“It’s wonderful news that the stump is starting to grow again,” said Andrew Poad, general manager of National Trust at Hadrian’s Wall.
“We always thought that nature would somehow bounce back, so it’s amazing to witness indications of life after just ten months. There was always a chance that the stump would recover because the tree was a large, robust one in its prime when it was felled, and it’s amazing to see the regrowth. We want to observe how each of the eight branches develops by letting them grow for a few years. We’ll be able to manage the tree in due course, either as a coppiced stool or by deciding whether to eventually reduce it to a single tree.”
To prevent damage, it is requested that visitors to the site refrain from touching the tree stump or the shoots.
According to police, the popular tourist site and a movie location by Kevin Costner’s 1991 film, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves was purposefully vandalized.
Daniel Graham, 38, and Adam Carruthers, 31, were accused of criminally damaging the tree earlier this year.
They were also accused of causing damage to the wall that Emperor Hadrian erected in AD 122 to protect the Roman Empire’s northwest frontier. A trial has been set for December after both filed not-guilty pleas.
