Sycamore Gap felling: Experts say replanting effort could grow to 8ft in a year
Nature experts claim that the Sycamore Gap stump could grow to eight foot by next year as forensic teams examine the trunk for clues
Jeff J Mitchell/Getty
Nature experts claim that the Sycamore Gap stump could grow to eight foot by next year as forensic teams examine the trunk for clues.
The world-famous tree which sat next to the iconic monument in Northumberland was cut down in a “malicious act of vandalism”, that sparked outrage from nature lovers across the UK.
Nature experts suggest the stump could grow some new shoots next spring but it will take decades to became a new tree.
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Detectives have remained at the scene to investigate the damage following claims that the vandalism was carried out by "a professional who knew where they were going to cut" on a windy night during 83mph Storm Agnes which would possibly have disguised the sound of a chainsaw.
Forensic experts took measurements and samples from the remains and photographed the area.
One was heard saying: "In 31 years of forensics I've never examined a tree."
According to one nature expert, the tree could be about eight foot tall by next spring, but with "lots of singular branches".
It could be possible to protect the stump for regrowth, according to the National Trust who is looking into gathering the seeds.
The Sycamore Gap – which is believed to have been deliberately chopped down earlier this week - is one of the UK’s most photographed trees.
Northumberland National Park Authority officials believe that the tree was “deliberately felled” and urged people to stay away from the fallen landmark.
The tree was featured in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman, and was known as Robin Hood’s Tree.
Northumberland National Park Authority officials believe that the tree was “deliberately felled” and urged people to stay away from the fallen landmark
Jeff J Mitchell/Getty
"It is very difficult to know if it will survive for sure, as I haven't seen it in person, but it's worth having hope," Jon Stokes, of conservation group The Tree Council, told Sky News.
"At this time of year, trees begin to store energy in their roots for next year's growing season - and it is possible that the tree may grow some new shoots next spring
"If they do appear, they will then take many decades to grow into a new tree - but there may be a chance. We won't know for sure until next spring."
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