Extract from ABC News
Seeds from the famous Sycamore Gap tree that was illegally felled in the UK last year are "springing into life" at a specialist conservation centre.
Pictures released by the National Trust have revealed a collection of small seedlings and buds growing at the charity's Plant Conservation Centre, where staff have been carefully looking after the delicate items for the past five months.
The famous tree, which had stood for nearly 200 years next to the Roman landmark Hadrian's Wall in northern England, was found lying on its side, cut near the base in September 2023.
Police said it believed the felling to be a deliberate act of vandalism.
The sycamore tree, which was often admired and photographed by visitors, was made famous by Kevin Costner's 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.
In December, staff of the conservation centre said that the material was showing "signs of life", but that the timing was less than ideal for propagating.
The seeds of the tree have been grown in a special peat-free compost mix, having been washed first and checked for any disease, with several dozen now sprouting.
"As well as being a fundamental part of our ecosystems, trees are an intrinsic part of our cultural heritage – a form of living history," said Andrew Jasper, director of gardens and parklands at the National Trust.
"Our Plant Conservation Centre cares for some of the rarest, and most historically and culturally significant trees."
The National Trust said its plans for the plants were still developing and that saplings wouldn't be ready to be planted out for at least another year.
Public outrage after felling
The tree's felling sparked an unprecedented public response.
"The response to the Sycamore Gap tree’s felling has been extraordinary, and we hope that by continuing to share its story, we can raise awareness of the cultural and natural significance of these majestic trees that we’re so lucky to have in the UK," Mr Jasper said.
Local author LJ Ross, who set her second book at Sycamore Gap, expressed her anger on social media.
"Terribly sad to hear of the loss of this iconic, beautiful tree, which was the setting for my second book and a source of peace and inspiration to many," she wrote at the time.
"This is an incredibly sad day," police superintendent Kevin Waring said last year.
"The tree was iconic to the North East and enjoyed by so many who live in or who have visited this region."
A range of responses
Several organisations are planning a range of responses to the tree's felling, from work with local schools to tree planting initiatives in Northumberland and artistic interpretations.
These plans had been inspired by 2,000 ideas and tributes received from the public.
Wood from the tree has been treated and is being stored under advice from experts.
"How great it is that experts have been able to bring us this direct connection and refreshed hope," said Tony Gates, CEO of the Northumberland National Park Authority.
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