Case of Sycamore Gap tree going to trial in north England
LONDON—There is a hole in the heart of the rolling hills of northern England.
A majestic sycamore tree that once sat symmetrically between two hills along Hadrian’s Wall was mysteriously felled more than a year-and-a-half ago, causing disbelief and distress for those who considered it an almost sacred site.
“We’re still devastated by it,” said Catherine Cape, who runs a small guest cabin nearby. “I can’t drive past it. … I just don’t like looking at the space there.”
Cape will be among those paying attention this week when prosecutors in Newcastle Crown Court begin presenting their case on Monday against two men accused of toppling the famous Sycamore Gap tree and damaging the ancient wall.
Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, have pleaded not guilty to two counts each of criminal damage. Prosecutors said the value of the tree exceeded $826,000 and damage to the wall was assessed at $1,466.
