Sycamore Gap tree: Second arrest made

Northumbria Police have made a second arrest in their investigation into the chopping down of the iconic Sycamore Gap Tree next to Hadrian's Wall.

The man in his 60s remains in police custody and is assisting with enquires.

It's thought the tree was felled overnight between Wednesday 27th and Thursday 28th September in what police believe to be a deliberate act of vandalism.

A 16 year old boy was questioned in connection with the incident, but he's since been released on bail.

The tree was made famous by the 1991 film Robbin Hood: Prince Of Thieves, and its since become one of the most photographed trees in Britain.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzie from Northumbria Police has issued a statement saying “this second arrest demonstrates just how seriously we’re taking this situation, and our ongoing commitment to find those responsible and bring them to justice."

She's encouraged members of the public with any information to get in touch, and so has local pub owner Steven Blair.

The Twice Brewed pub is offering a £1,500 bar tab to anyone with information on what happened.

A fundraiser's also been kickstarted to create a memorial for the tree at the site where it was found.

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