A young tree grown from the famous Sycamore Gap has been taken from a National Trust property in Cumbria, leaving officials “shocked and saddened” by the theft.
The sapling, which had been planted at Wray Castle near Ambleside in April this year, was removed from the site sometime between 9 and 16 June.
Laura Lee, general manager for the National Trust in the Lake District, said: “This tree symbolised resilience and renewal, and its loss will be deeply felt.”
Cumbria Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information.
The stolen sapling was among fifteen young trees distributed across Britain’s National Parks, each cultivated from seeds harvested from the original Sycamore Gap tree before its destruction.
The iconic sycamore, which stood in a dramatic dip along Hadrian’s Wall, was illegally cut down in September 2023 in what was later described as a “moronic act”.
Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers received prison sentences of more than four years in July 2025 for felling the beloved landmark, although neither man has ever explained why they did it.
The saplings were intended to serve as symbols of hope and renewal throughout the country’s most protected landscapes.
The felled Sycamore Gap tree, on Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland | PA
The sapling held particular significance beyond its symbolic value, forming a central part of a wellbeing programme called “Branches of Care”.
This joint initiative between the National Trust and St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston was designed to help people facing illness, dementia and bereavement by connecting them with nature.
Ms Lee described the theft as “heartbreaking” given the tree’s role in supporting vulnerable individuals.
Despite protective measures including staking and regular monitoring, the young tree remained accessible to the public due to its location within the castle grounds, and CCTV coverage in the area was limited.
The National Trust has urged those responsible to return the sapling, with Ms Lee stating: “We urge those involved to do the right thing, return the sapling, or come forward. The tree belongs to everyone.”
Police are asking visitors who were at Wray Castle and its grounds during the relevant period to contact them with any information that might help narrow down when the theft occurred.
Anyone with details about the incident should contact Cumbria Police quoting crime reference CRI10053058, either through the force’s website or by telephoning 101.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.