Sycamore Tree From "Robin Hood Prince of Thieves" Cut Down

https://deadline.com/2023/09/sycamore-gap-robin-hood-prince-of-thieves-tree-chopped-down-1235558525/#comments

The UK’s Sycamore Gap tree, best known for featuring prominently in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, has been chopped down in what authorities have described as an “act of vandalism.”

Northumberland National Park Authority officials have said they believe the tree was “deliberately felled.” A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage in connection with the incident.

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 inquiries.”

Information to assist us – if you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, please let us know.”

The National Trust — which owns the land — said it was “shocked and saddened” over the illegal felling.

The Sycamore Gap was a sycamore tree that stood next to Hadrian’s Wall near Crag Lough in Northumberland, England. It was located in a dramatic dip in the landscape and was a popular spot with photographers. In the past, the spot was described as one of the most photographed trees in the country.

The tree featured in a key scene of the 1991 Kevin Costner pic Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and was subsequently known as the “Robin Hood Tree.” Authorities have asked the public not to visit the site while they work with their “partners to identify what has happened and to make the site safe.”