Man Accused of Felling Sycamore Gap Tree Says He Was Framed in a Feud

The mystery surrounding the felling of the famous Sycamore Gap tree continues to stir public attention as new claims come to light. One of the men accused of cutting down the iconic tree has told police that he was framed as part of a long-standing personal feud. Both men who are facing charges have also stated they did not have the skills or experience to cut down such a large tree.

Man accused of felling Sycamore Gap tree told police he was framed in feud .Both men accused of felling the tree claim they did not have the skill to do so.

The Sycamore Gap Tree: A National Treasure

The Sycamore Gap tree was one of the most photographed trees in the UK. Located along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, the tree had become a beloved natural landmark. It featured in countless photos, postcards, and even appeared in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Its sudden destruction in September 2023 shocked the country and led to a widespread outcry.

The 200-year-old tree was found felled overnight, leaving only a stump behind. Authorities quickly launched an investigation, treating the act as a criminal offense due to the tree’s protected status and cultural significance.

Two Men Charged in Connection With the Crime

In late 2023, two men were formally charged with causing criminal damage to the historic Sycamore Gap tree. The suspects, aged 37 and 31, were arrested and questioned by Northumbria Police.

As the case unfolds, one of the accused has come forward with a striking claim. He says he was set up by someone he’s had an ongoing personal conflict with. According to reports, he told police he believes the tree was cut down by someone else who wanted to pin the crime on him to settle a score.

The second man accused also denied having anything to do with the tree’s felling. Both men maintain their innocence and insist they lacked the necessary knowledge or equipment to bring down a tree of that size.

“We Didn’t Have the Skills,” Say Accused

One of the key points both men raised during questioning was that cutting down a tree like the Sycamore Gap tree would require specific skills and professional-grade tools. They argue that neither of them is a trained tree surgeon or arborist and would not know how to properly or safely bring down such a large and sturdy tree.

“It’s not like cutting down a small garden tree,” one of the accused reportedly told investigators. “You’d need to know exactly where and how to make the cuts to bring it down cleanly. We just don’t have that kind of experience.”

This claim has sparked questions among both the public and law enforcement about whether a third party with more experience could have been involved.

Framed in a Feud?

The idea that the crime may have been a setup adds another layer to the investigation. The accused man who claims he was framed reportedly named an individual with whom he had been feuding for years. He believes that person had both the motive and the knowledge to carry out the act—and wanted to shift the blame to him as revenge.

At this time, police have not confirmed whether they are looking into this new angle or investigating the third party mentioned. However, they continue to ask the public for any information that could assist the case.

Public Outrage and Grief

The felling of the Sycamore Gap tree sparked nationwide outrage and sadness. Many people traveled to the site to pay their respects, and makeshift memorials appeared near the stump. Conservationists, environmental groups, and locals have all expressed deep sorrow over the loss.

“This was not just a tree,” said a local resident. “It was a symbol of peace, nature, and heritage. To see it gone like this is heartbreaking.”

Calls for Justice

There is strong pressure on authorities to find out exactly who is responsible and bring them to justice. The public wants answers—and they want to make sure that an act like this never happens again.

Meanwhile, both men charged in the case are preparing for trial, where they hope to prove their innocence and clear their names. If the claim about being framed proves true, the real culprit may still be out there.

What’s Next?

The legal process is ongoing, and new details may emerge as the case heads to court. Northumbria Police have stated they are committed to uncovering the truth and will follow all leads.

In the meantime, there are growing calls to replant a tree at the site. The National Trust and other conservation groups have begun exploring the possibility of planting a new sapling, though many say the original can never truly be replaced.

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