A tree expert has shared hope the beloved Sycamore Gap could be saved - but will take decades to regrow to its previous glory.
The tree had stood in a dramatic dip near to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland for more than 300 years and was made famous when it appeared in Kevin Costner's 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves. Northumbria Police launched an investigation on Thursday after the tree was deliberately felled overnight with a chainsaw, saying it was treating it as an act of vandalism as a 16-year-old was arrested over the incident. He is currently in police custody.
Walkers have reacted with fury to the news but have been given a glimmer of hope all is not lost - although people will have to be a little patient. 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.
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“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.”
The force later said a 16-year-old boy had been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage. He is in police custody and assisting officers with their inquiries, a spokesperson said.
Superintendent Kevin Waring, of Northumbria Police, said: "This is a world-renowned landmark and the events of today have caused significant shock, sadness and anger throughout the local community and beyond. An investigation was immediately launched following this vandalism, and this afternoon we have arrested one suspect in connection with our enquiries. Given our investigation remains at a very early stage, we are keeping an open mind. I am appealing to the public for information to assist us - if you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, please let us know. Any information - no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be - could prove absolutely crucial to our enquiries."
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."
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