A man under trial for the controversial felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree along Hadrian’s Wall claims to have been set up as part of an ongoing feud. The tree, which had stood as a cherished landmark for over a century, was cut down in a “moronic mission” in the early hours of September 28, 2023. Daniel Michael Graham and Adam Carruthers, both accused in the case, plead not guilty to charges of criminal damage pertaining to both the tree and the historic Roman Wall.
During police interrogation, Mr. Graham professed his lack of expertise in felling a large tree, only to later provide officers with a detailed explanation of the technique involved. It is alleged that on the night of the incident, the two defendants allegedly embarked on a 40-minute drive from Cumbria to carry out the felling.
Footage captured on Mr. Graham’s phone revealed the felling of the tree, with the defendants allegedly taking a piece of the trunk as a souvenir. Subsequent analysis by experts indicated that the wedge obtained was likely from the Sycamore Gap tree but had not been recovered by authorities. The ongoing trial has heard Mr. Graham vehemently deny any involvement in the incident, citing that he was not responsible for the tree’s destruction.
As proceedings continue, Mr. Graham maintained that there was no incriminating evidence on his iPhone 13 that linked him to the felling. Despite repeated questioning, he refused to comment on the video found on his phone, stressing that owning the phone didn’t imply direct involvement in the act. Moreover, he expressed his distress over being falsely accused, emphasizing his commitment to resolving the matter with those who had implicated him. The trial is set to carry on, shedding light on the disputed events surrounding the felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree
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