Police investigating the felling of one of Britain’s most beloved trees are now following a new line of inquiry – that a chainsaw was used and the cut was done for TikTok views
Police are looking into the possibility that the culprit behind the Sycamore Gap tree felling used a chainsaw – and was doing it for TikTok content.
Two arrests have been made so far, with a 16-year-old boy yesterday bailed out of custody under investigation, and a man in his 60s was taken into custody last night for questioning. And now Northumbria Police are reportedly following a line of inquiry that a chainsaw was used to chop down Britain’s most famous tree in what was a stunt for engagement on social media.
Forensic officers were seen taking photographs and samples of the tree – once perched in a natural dip along Hadrian’s wall – as police began to prove a launch to gain a full picture of what happened overnight between Wednesday and Thursday. Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies said the investigation is in its “early stages” and they “encourage any members of the public with information which may assist to get in touch”.
Discussions have sparked online regarding what to do with the wood from the famous tree, which starred in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Northumberland National Park and National Trust bosses are expected to discuss this weekend what the best next steps should be. It could become a memorial carving or a giant totem pole in order to keep it as a tourist site and pay tribute to the fallen tree, the Daily Express reported. The National Trust said it is “very grateful” for the support from North East residents and those from further afield – such as those who have donated to a fundraiser which has surpassed £3,000 – adding that “this tree was special to many, many people”.