2 men convicted of cutting down beloved Sycamore Gap tree in 'mindless' destruction

npr.orgPublished: 5/9/2025

Summary

"Amidst the quiet streets of [Location], an ancient Sycamore Gap tree—a symbol of community for over two centuries—was suddenly struck by a pair of would-be vandals. Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, convicted of criminal damage, had no motive but were caught via their phones at the scene. Now facing up to 10 years each in prison after their former friendship turned to betrayal during trial, conservation groups like the National Trust are working to restore the tree's health with signs of new growth appearing."