Nation's tree - a grieving nation bids farewell to a fallen symbol

The natural landscape - Nation's tree - a grieving nation bids farewell to a fallen symbol

It seems like someone has destroyed a significant tree in northern England. This act is considered a crime, even though the victim is just a tree.

Two individuals are accused of cutting down the majestic, approximately 15-meter tall beech tree in September 2023. They maintain their innocence, hiding their faces during court proceedings.

The reason for their actions remains unclear. The upcoming trial might provide some answers: The two accused will face trial beginning December 3rd, with charges of severe property damage, as a judge in Newcastle announced on Wednesday. The estimated damage cost exceeds £620,000 (€735,000). Yet, the intangible worth could be even greater.

"Landmark" or "Essence of England's Identity"

The local MP, Guy Opperman, referred to it as a "landmark." The National Park Northumberland described it as "a part of England's identity." The importance of the 200-year-old giant is evident from the name of its location, "Sycamore Gap". The area signifies the tree and is often utilized in artworks to create beautiful, dramatic images. The tall trunk stands in the center of the valley, with countless photos featuring children alongside the tree or with a starry backdrop.

To the left and right of the tree, the residual remnants of Hadrian's Wall are present, constructed by the Romans two thousand years ago to protect themselves from northern intruders and control trade routes. The beech tree fell—its roots left behind—onto the wall's remains, resulting in additional damage.

The tree gained prominence primarily through a Hollywood production. In the 1991 film "Robin Hood - King of Thieves", the beech tree played a significant role: Robin, played by Kevin Costner, protects a teenager from pursuing dogs in the gap.

The tree's popularity is attributed to its portrayal in the movie. In "Robin Hood - King of Thieves" (1991), the beech tree is a prominent symbol: Robin, portrayed by Kevin Costner, shields a youth fleeing from pursuing dogs in the gap.

The film's director, Kevin Reynolds, described the illegal felling as "disgusting." "Even though it was just a tree, some trees become icons and are essential to our emotional lives. They evoke feelings that make us feel closer to nature and inspire deep emotions within us."

The transportation of the uprooted trunk after the crime was compared to "a funeral or wake" by Andrew Poad from the National Trust. "We who work here feel mournful, as if we have lost a loved one," Poad said. "He experienced fame in the 1990s, but with the increase in social media, he gained a life of his own."

There is optimism for a renewed life, even though it may take 150 to 200 years for a similarly mighty trunk to replace the one previously standing in the valley. The National Trust is gathering seeds to cultivate saplings, which will be planted in various locations across the country—including at King Charles III's Windsor Castle. Oscar-winning actress Judi Dench ("Shakespeare in Love") planted a sapling at the Chelsea Flower Show.

"The reaction to the destruction of the beech tree illustrates our strong emotional ties to nature and the preservation of our shared heritage," said National Trust Chief Executive Hilary McGrady. "The emerging green shoots are a means to perpetuate 'Sycamore Gap's' history and symbolize the needed, uplifting emotions, happiness, and tranquility that nature provides."

Read also:

1. The incident has sparked outrage in Great Britain, with King Charles III expressing his condolences over the loss of the tree.
2. The act of destruction has caused significant damage not only to property in Northumberland but also to the cultural and historical significance of the area.
3. The film industry in England is also affected, as the beech tree's destruction could impact future filming locations and the prestige of Northern England as a filming destination.
4. The men accused of the crime face possible additional charges for damage to historical structures, such as Hadrian's Wall, due to their actions.
5. Robin Hood fans worldwide are mourning the loss of the iconic filming location, arguing that the tree was not just a symbol of nature, but also a piece of movie history.
6. In response to the destruction, authorities in England have increased security around significant trees and historical sites to prevent further damage.
7. The local community in Northumberland has rallied together, organizing fundraisers and planting initiatives to honor the memory of the tree and restore the nature and heritage of the area.
8. The case of the beech tree's destruction has highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and preservation in Great Britain, prompting calls for stricter penalties for environmental crimes.

• Severe flooding continues in southern Germany.
• Floods continue to pose a major threat in southern Germany.
• Rising floods in the southern regions
• Floods: water levels remain critical in many places