British police have made a second arrest in relation to the cutting down of a 300-year-old tree near Hadrian’s Wall in Hexham, Northumberland. Following the release of a 16-year-old on bail, a man in his 60s has been taken into custody for questioning. Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies emphasized the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to finding those responsible.
The destruction of the iconic tree, which was a renowned landmark and local treasure, has sparked shock, horror, and anger throughout the North East and beyond. The tree, located at Sycamore Gap, was a popular attraction for walkers and gained fame after appearing in the film “Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.”
Renowned nature writer Robert Macfarlane expressed his deep disappointment and suggested planting a new forest in honor of the fallen tree. The National Trust, responsible for protecting England’s heritage and natural landscapes, is currently working to secure the site and support the community in coping with the news.
Experts believe that the tree could potentially regrow, but it will never be the same. The head gardener at The Alnwick Garden, Rob Ternent, explained that while recovery may begin in the spring, it will take a long time for the tree to reach its former size of approximately 300 years.
The incident has left people across the United Kingdom baffled and angry, as the destruction of such an iconic tree is seen as part of a broader issue of environmental disregard. The tree’s cutting has drawn attention to the deforestation challenges faced by Britain, which is considered one of the most deforested countries in Europe.
