The National Trust has urged visitors to stay away from the former site of the Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland after it was deliberately cut down on Wednesday. The site has been drawing hundreds of visitors despite being closed to the public as agencies assess the fallen tree. Seed and clipping samples are being taken by volunteers to aid the assessment process.
Andrew Poad, general manager at Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads Fort, acknowledged that the Sycamore Gap tree held significance for the local community and visitors alike. However, the organisation urged people to respect the site’s closure and follow advice from the National Trust and Northumberland National Park regarding visiting the location.
The tree, a landmark beside Hadrian’s Wall for nearly two centuries, was looked after jointly by the Park Authority and tNational Trust. The two organisations plan to “consider” future plans for the felled tree and site. A 16-year-old boy was initially arrested on suspicion of criminal damage before being released on bail, while a man in his 60s was later arrested in connection with the felling.
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In summary, the National Trust has advised visitors to avoid the former site of the Sycamore Gap tree near Northumberland, which drew hundreds of visitors following the tree’s deliberate cutting down on Wednesday. Volunteers are taking seed and clipping samples to assess the fallen landmark, which is currently closed to visitors while safety work is carried out. The joint caretakers of the tree, the National Trust and Northumberland National Park, will consider plans for the site and the tree’s future. A man in his 60s was arrested in connection with the felling, following the earlier arrest of a 16-year-old. Contact northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk to share story ideas
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