New shoots encircle Sycamore Gap stump three years after illegal felling

Three years after Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers illegally felled the beloved sycamore at Sycamore Gap on Hadrian’s Wall, the National Trust has released photos of a robust ring of shoots surrounding the remaining stump. The new shoots, some two to three feet high, are a result of the area being fenced off and measures to lessen soil compaction and human traffic. Andrew Poad, general manager for the Trust at Hadrian’s Wall, described the growth as a positive sign that the conservation steps are working and said rangers will continue to monitor the site.

Visitors who respect the protective measures are thanked for helping the tree’s chances of recovery. Additionally, the Trust has cultivated saplings from seeds collected on site and launched arts projects to highlight nature’s role today.