King receives Sycamore Gap tree seedling nearly eight months after felling
The first seedling grown from the Sycamore Gap tree was presented to King Charles
Last updated 27th May 2024
The King has been presented with the first seedling grown from seeds collected from the Sycamore Gap tree, nearly eight months after the historic tree was felled in an act of vandalism.
The tree, which stood next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland for 200 years, was chopped down in September last year, to national outrage.
Earlier this month a district judge said the case of two men accused of felling the famous tree - damage that was estimated to be around £622,191 - was so serious it must be dealt with at the crown court.
Once matured, the seedling will be planted in Windsor Great Park. The National Trust have said it will be there for visitors to enjoy as a symbol of the hope and beauty that can come from loss.
Hilary McGrady, director general of the National Trust, said: "It is wonderful news that His Majesty will one day have the very first sapling grown from this iconic tree.
"The new tree will be seen by many thousands each year and will be the first of many Sycamore Gap saplings planted at different places, in Northumberland and beyond.
"The swell of emotion we saw after the sycamore was felled goes to show how personally connected we all are to our natural heritage.
"These new green shoots are keeping the story of the Sycamore Gap alive and are serving as a reminder of the simple and much-needed hope, joy and respite that nature can bring."
The seedling will continue to be cared for by expert horticulturists until it is ready for planting.
The Sycamore Gap tree was among the UK's most photographed trees and appeared in Kevin Costner's 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.
The National Trust said planting plans for the other surviving seedlings will be announced later this year, including in Northumberland.
It is hoped the trees these seedlings grow into, including the one received by Charles, will distribute their own seeds widely through the wind.