Boy, 16, released on bail after being arrested over Sycamore Gap felling
A teenage boy arrested over the felling of the beloved Sycamore Gap tree has been released on bail.
The landmark, made famous as the Robin Hood Tree but Kevin Costner's Prince of Thieves, had stood in a dramatic dip close to Hadrian’s Wall for more than 300 years before it was sawed down overnight on Thursday. Walkers and nature experts have reacted with fury to the vandalism and Northumbria Police arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection with the incident.
The force has now confirmed the schoolboy has been released on bail after being arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage. A spokesman for the Force said: "A 16-year-old male was arrested in connection with the incident. He has since been released on police bail, pending further inquiries.”
Superintendent Kevin Waring, of Northumbria Police, earlier said: “This is an incredibly sad day. The tree was iconic to the North East and enjoyed by so many who live in or who have visited this region.
“As a Force, we are fully committed to finding out the full circumstances and we will consider every tactic at our disposal in this investigation. I would ask anyone who saw anything suspicious or knows anything that can assist our investigation to get in touch with us.”
Drink-driver steals JCB digger to smash into family house in revenge attack
The sycamore could be seen from the nearby road and was looked after by both Northumberland National Park Authority and the National Trust. Asked about the felling, Rishi Sunak told ITV Tyne Tees and Border: "The police are currently investigating the incident, so it wouldn't be right for me to comment on that one in particular."
The Prime Minister added the Government is "absolutely committed" to protecting the UK's natural landscape. Heritage minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay added: "Like everyone across the North East, and far beyond, I am heartbroken at the loss of this iconic part of our nation's heritage. It is unfathomable anyone would want to deny future generations the opportunity to have their lives enriched, as those of so many people from all over the world have been, by this breathtaking site."
It was earlier reported the tree could be saved, although an expert said it will take decades to regrow to its previous glory. Jon Stokes, from the Tree Council, told Sky News: “It is very difficult to know if it will survive for sure, as I haven't seen it in person, but it's worth having hope.
“At this time of year, trees begin to store energy in their roots for next year's growing season - and it is possible that the tree may grow some new shoots next spring. “If they do appear, they will then take many decades to grow into a new tree - but there may be a chance. We won't know for sure until next spring.”
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
