Daniel Graham, 38, and Adam Carruthers, 31, are facing charges of criminal damage for cutting down the £622,191 Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland, causing harm to Hadrian’s Wall. The incident has sparked national outcry due to the historical significance of the tree and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Two men, Daniel Graham, 38, and Adam Carruthers, 31, are appearing before Newcastle Crown Court in connection with the felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland. The tree, valued at £622,191 and managed by the National Trust, was cut down overnight between September 27 and 28, 2023, causing significant damage to both the tree and Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Graham and Carruthers face charges of criminal damage after the incident, which drew national outrage given the tree’s historical and cultural significance. Additionally, the damage to Hadrian’s Wall is estimated at £1,144. During a previous hearing at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court, Graham pleaded not guilty to both charges, while Carruthers did not enter a plea.
The trial, which is expected to last around ten days, is being held in the absence of Daniel Graham, who is anticipated to join later via a remote link. Both men have been on unconditional bail since the hearings began. Judge Paul Sloan KC is overseeing the case, though a final decision on the presiding judge remains pending.
