Sycamore Gap tree sapling stolen from castle grounds months after planting

A young tree, grown from a seed of the famous Sycamore Gap tree, has been stolen from the grounds of Wray castle in Cumbria. This happened only a few months after it was planted.

The original Sycamore Gap tree was a very well-known and loved tree located near Hadrian’s Wall. Sadly, it was deliberately cut down in September 2023 for no clear reason.

Two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, were found guilty of illegally cutting down the tree and received prison sentences of over four years.

The National Trust managed to collect seeds from the old Sycamore Gap tree. They successfully grew 49 young trees, called saplings, which were planned to be planted across the UK as symbols of hope.

Many places wanted these special saplings, with one location receiving over 500 applications. However, one of these saplings has now been stolen from Wray parkland and castle in Cumbria, where it was planted in April.

Staff at the castle believe the sapling was taken intentionally. Jez Westgarth from the National Trust suggested that someone took it to plant somewhere else. He explained that it wasn't just pulled out carelessly, suggesting careful planning.

The National Trust expressed sadness about the theft and asked the public for any information that could help find the sapling. Laura Lee, a manager for the National Trust in the Lake District, said they were shocked because the sapling was gifted to the national park and planted as a symbol of hope and resilience.

This particular sapling was also helping to raise awareness for a cause supporting people with dementia and those who are grieving. Cumbria police are investigating the theft, which they think happened between June 9th and June 16th.

Other saplings have been planted in places with significant stories, such as a memorial for a mining disaster in Staffordshire and a project to save trees in Coventry. Another is in Northern Ireland, in an area that suffered during a long conflict but is now known for its arts and music.

The original Sycamore Gap tree was a special place where people celebrated events, had picnics, and enjoyed nature. It gained international recognition after appearing in the 1991 movie, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Lee added that the stolen sapling symbolised resilience and that its loss is felt deeply. The National Trust is working with the police and hopes that whoever took the sapling will return it or come forward with information. They emphasised that the tree belongs to everyone.