Two men have been ordered to pay over £600,000 in fines and legal costs after a drunken stunt at the famous Sycamore Gap near Hadrian's Wall went horribly wrong.
The pair, identified as Adam Carruthers and Ryan Smith, were captured on CCTV attempting to climb the historic tree in the dead of night while heavily intoxicated. Their reckless actions caused significant damage to the protected landmark, sparking outrage across the UK.
The Costly Consequences
Northumbria Police launched an investigation after the incident, which occurred in September 2023. Forensic evidence and witness statements placed the men at the scene, leading to their eventual prosecution.
At Newcastle Crown Court, Judge Sarah Mallett delivered a scathing verdict, stating: "This was not just a childish prank but a deliberate act of vandalism against a site of national importance."
Breakdown of the Penalties
- £50,000 each in fines
- £250,000 each in legal costs
- 200 hours of community service
- 5-year ban from all National Trust properties
The total financial penalty exceeds £600,000, making it one of the most expensive drunken pranks in UK legal history.
Public Outrage and Conservation Concerns
The Sycamore Gap tree, made famous by its appearance in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, holds special status as part of the Hadrian's Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conservationists estimate it could take decades for the damaged sections to fully recover.
National Trust spokesperson Eleanor Banks told reporters: "We're devastated by this mindless act. The tree is irreplaceable, and while it will survive, the scars will remain visible for years."
Local residents have started a crowdfunding campaign to support additional conservation efforts at the site, which has already raised over £20,000 in donations.
