• Two men were sentenced for over four years for cutting down the iconic Sycamore Gap tree.
• The tree, nearly 200 years old, was destroyed in a calculated act captured on video.
• Public outrage followed the destruction, emphasizing the cultural loss felt by the community.

Two British men, Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, were each sentenced to over four years in prison for the deliberate felling of the Sycamore Gap tree, a notable landmark known for its appearance in the 1991 film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." The tree, estimated to be nearly 200 years old, stood beside Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and was cherished by locals and tourists alike, according to HuffPost and Reuters.

Under the judgment of Justice Christina Lambert at Newcastle Crown Court, both men were convicted on two counts of criminal damage, one for the tree and one for damaging the Roman wall. The prosecution described the act as a "moronic mission" prompted by "sheer bravado," and the men filmed the act, further showcasing their disregard for the cultural significance of the tree, according to CBS News and Los Angeles Times.

The Sycamore Gap tree was known not only for its striking silhouette but also served as a location for photographers and romantic activities. Its cutting caused significant distress among community members, who viewed it as a symbol of the area's natural beauty. Comments from Andrew Poad, manager of the National Trust, highlighted that "this iconic tree can never be replaced," underlining the cultural ramifications of its destruction, according to South China Morning Post and IndiaTimes.

The incident, which took place on September 27, 2023, led to widespread outrage as the news spread across the nation, emphasizing the importance of such landmarks in people's lives. Plans are now in motion for the largest section of the tree to be displayed in an art installation, providing a place for reflection and remembrance of its significance, according to HuffPost and Reuters.