Boy, 16, arrested in connection with felling of famous Sycamore Gap tree

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage in connection with the felling of the Sycamore Gap tree in the north of England, police said.

The boy is in custody and assisting officers with their inquires, Northumbria police said.

The tree, next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, was made famous when it appeared in Kevin Costner’s 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.

Northumbria police said they believed the damage caused to the tree was a deliberate act of vandalism.

Supt Kevin Waring, of Northumbria police, said: “This is a world-renowned landmark and the events of today have caused significant shock, sadness and anger throughout the local community and beyond.

“An investigation was immediately launched following this vandalism, and this afternoon we have arrested one suspect in connection with our inquiries.

“Given our investigation remains at a very early stage, we are keeping an open mind. I am appealing to the public for information to assist us – if you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, please let us know.”