Man arrested by officers investigating the felling of world-famous Sycamore Gap tree

Police have arrested a second person in relation to the felling of the famous Sycamore Gap tree.

The tree at Northumberland's Sycamore Gap is one of the most photographed in the country, but was cut down earlier this week in what is believed to have been a 'deliberate act of vandalism'.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested earlier this week on suspicion of criminal damage, but he was later released on bail.

A man in his 60s has now also been arrested in relation to the incident, which took place on the night of Thursday 28 September.

Northumbria Police confirmed the man in his 60s was arrested on Friday evening in connection with the felling of the tree, saying he remains in police custody assisting officers with inquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies, of Northumbria Police, said: “The senseless destruction of what is undoubtedly a world-renowned landmark – and a local treasure – has quite rightly resulted in an outpour of shock, horror and anger throughout the North East and further afield.

“I hope this second arrest demonstrates just how seriously we’re taking this situation, and our ongoing commitment to find those responsible and bring them to justice.

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“Although another arrest has been made, this investigation is still in the early stages, and we would continue to encourage any members of the public with information which may assist to get in touch.

“If you’ve seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us – I’d implore you to contact us.

“I’d also like to remind the public that this remains a live investigation so, for that reason, please avoid any speculation both in the community and on social media.

“Any information – no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be – could prove absolutely crucial to our enquiries.”

After the 16-year-old was taken into custody by Northumbria Police 'on suspicion of criminal damage' yesterday, Police Superintendant Kevin Waring said in a statement: "He remains in police custody at this time and is assisting officers with their 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.

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"Any information - no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be - could prove absolutely crucial to our inquiries."

The Sycamore Gap tree is a famous UK landmark that sits at the side of Hadrian’s Wall, having become popular with walkers, photographers and even filmmakers - being a location for Kevin Costner’s 1991 movie Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.

After the iconic tree was felled, Northumberland National Park said it believes it was done on purpose.

In a statement, the park authority said: "Northumberland National Park Authority can confirm that sadly, the famous tree at Sycamore Gap has come down overnight.

“We have reason to believe it has been deliberately felled."

Andrew Poad, the general manager of the National Trust, also told the BBC: "It’s a very healthy tree, we can see that now, because of the condition of the stump, it may well regrow a coppice from the stump, and if we could nurture that then that might be one of the best outcomes, and then we keep the tree."