The trial commenced on Tuesday at Newcastle Crown Court, less than an hour from the site where the tree once stood. Delayed since December due to Graham's illness, the judge emphasized the importance of trying both men together for public interest. Initial charges were filed in April 2024. Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney previously urged the public to refrain from online speculation regarding the case, highlighting the emotional impact the incident had on both local and global communities.

The Sycamore Gap tree was not just a waymark for hikers; it served as a backdrop for cherished memories, marriage proposals, and even featured in the 1991 film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." Despite its destruction, recent reports indicate new growth, with rangers discovering shoots at the base. The National Trust plans to propagate the tree's legacy by distributing 49 saplings next year, symbolizing the tree's height before it was cut down.

As the trial unfolds, the public awaits further developments in a case that has stirred deep emotional ties among those who revered this natural monument.

This is a developing story; updates will follow as the trial progresses.