A building can be rebuilt. This tree will never be around again in my lifetime. Just mindless vandalism by grown men who should know better. I would imagine the two who did it probably already have criminal records.
I can only assume that the people saying "it is just a tree" have never actually witnessed it in person. It was beautiful, majestic, and a landmark, and DID feel spiritual and to destroy something that means so much to a lot of people is just so unnecessary, and in doing so, makes you wonder about the mindset of such a person, and even if such a callous person with no respect for beauty or history or nature or other peoples feelings should be allowed on our streets, the tree stood proud and strong and even if you have no sentimental attachment to it, (which i have) you could still respect and admire it for what it was
But yet it was still only a Feckin tree . No one has been injured it was wrong I get that but look at the world we’re in it’s hardly worth all the fuss . We got wars , immigration national disasters and a tree cut down WOW.
I think the loss of finances to local businesses, due to people not visiting the area (As the tree has gone) should be also taken into account. My opinion, it's mindless vandalism and if found guilty they should face the full 10 years.
@ nobody has received a prison sentence for 5 years for a ‘tweet’ (euphemism noted) but sentenced for inciting racial hatred and violence on Twitter during a period of significant civil unrest has resulted in prison 👍🏻
@@TynesideLife One lass who had just finished her shift as a Care Assistant was understandably surprised to see the activity going on. She then quite naturally uploaded it onto a social media platform. She's now in prison. We are living under a Marxist dictatorship.
Yet the two lads who assaulted the coppers in Manchester walk free Ricky Jones insighting violence walks free...howay...a year to 2 year is more than enough. Nonces another one get suspended sentences
So, word on the crag is that the tree got chopped because the public can't treat an area with respect so they don't deserve to have access to it, if access can't be removed then remove what they're coming to see or do. Councils, Park management's and trusts have been doing it for centuries. Apparently, some people got sick of Northumberland national park not maintaining its side of the arrangement in cleaning up and maintaining the area after the tramp tourists and city people who not only walk all over the wall but pick chunks of it up and throw it off Peel or Crag Lough itself, they also allow their rat dogs to harry the livestock and then scare, poison and kill the livestock themselves by littering, camping, setting fires, destroying the woodland and generally disrespecting the homes and livelihoods of over worked and under appreciated men and women. Or so Ive heard.
Not to mention that the tree was also in a film with Kevin Costner, I visited it as a school boy and later with my family, I am now 73 and feel we have been robbed of an iconic national monument.
In my opinion it's HATE ! Wanting to destroy something to cause harm: To the tree, To the environment and harm to those that love the natural world that brings pleasure and forms our lifeblood. All this effort just so they could watch from their sad little room as millions of people were upset by the mindless and needless destruction of something good, that we could all be proud of and cherish ! This is a common theme nowadays and encouraged by millions of folk with a similar view online . The world is a nasty place just now and we need to stand against it.
I totally agree with all the points the manager of Twice Brewed said. But do you know what bothers me the most? and you touched on it. It was over 200 years old, so when you think that the tree had been around through several centuries, both world wars and countless other things, it obviously was around long before any of us were around and would have been here long after all of us as well and was cut down for some petty grudge "allegedly" so yes that's exactly right its part of our heritage, and anything that is of historical value should be treated differently.
Eddy, regular viewer here. I had a sycamore pollarded a year ago not far from steel rigg. Anyhow, by early summer that tree will have 3ft of shoots coming off it. Fast forward 10 years and it’ll be 25/30ft tall. Albeit it’ll look like a round bush. Stay positive and keep up the great journalism
In a way, it's like a family heirloom in that the object itself may not be much, but it's the memories and history behind it that make it so important.
It's like someone knocking down Big Ben in London it's a monument of national importance no different to the Sycamore Gap tree and your youtube channel both of which are nationally important. 2 days to go til my birthday and I'll be in Newcastle and I can't wait. We'll done on another awesome video Eddy.
I live in the area. There is more to this story than is being revealed. Two men aren't going to chop down an iconic tree, at night, just on their own whim. Someone paid them to do it, and they need to speak up and say who, and that person has to also be brought to justice and made to pay a fine and prison sentence. It's National Trust property, but they will have leased the land from someone. Lots of people walk that route, many to just to see the Sycamore Gap tree and photograph and paint it etc. It was an important tree, but because of that, and the people it attracted onto the land, someone wanted it chopped down. The identity of that person is so secret that the two men on trial initially blamed a 16 year old apprentice. He, sensibly, spoke up. I thonk Caruthers is hiding his face because he doesn't want to be recognised because he will be associated with the person who paid them. There is more going on with this, and it isn't the time for these men to be silent to protect someone else.
Hi Amanda, the possible motives haven’t been suggested or ‘revealed’ in any of my videos on this. I’m aware that there will be a significant reason for the motive and it’s certainly not on a whim. I’m also aware you’re repeating local speculation, rather than first hand knowledge. What you’re claiming may or not turn out to be correct, but this isn’t the only motive that’s being speculated on. We’ll hopefully find out at court 👍🏻
I disagree. Chavs are chavs and whoever did this is the kind of person who destroys things because they enjoy upsetting people and enjoy the fact that they can take something away from people. They'd be the kind of people who liked stamping on live animals when children.
It’s the mentality of these (innocent until proven guilty) and people like them that needs to be addressed and rectified. That requires the law to step in to send a message that such behaviour unacceptable to a degree of sufficient deterrence. The ten years is a maximum for the category.
What a fantastic report! I'm here on a Friday night, sitting in a very privileged part of Sydney, Australia, having been brought up in Byker even before the Byker Wall was built, thinking that this is a sad episode in a Geordie culture I still hold dear to my heart some 45 years after leaving a region that formed all of my principles in life. Well done on your stance - and your coverage of this woeful incident, as well the neglect of present-day Byker, Gateshead High St. etc etc. Keep up the great work. It's much appreciated from the other side of the world!
There's always the arsehole factor. It's when arseholes do whatever it is they do to make them believe they are not arseholes but the most important person in the world who can do whatever they want.
Well said Eddy. Every now and again a crime comes along where an example and precedent needs to be set, so further similar crimes, in this case to our heritage, will not be tolerated. This is most certainly one of those crimes. It strikes me as more than just mindless violence too, as a great deal of time and effort must have gone into reaching that isolated spot on a stormy night. It will be interesting to see what comes out in court as to their reasons for doing it.
Thank you for keeping this issue alive in the build up to the trial. Useful and important information, especially the focus on the local impact for individuals and businesses.
I was getting married a month later in the October, and as a wedding gift me and the wife were gifted a short stay at a lovely B&B (Layside) for after our honeymoon - a B&B that overlooked Sycamore Gap - obviously booked before this happened. Not making it all about myself but naturally was very disappointed that this happened right before I got to see it. Still would be just as disappointed if it happened after my stay. Just completely obnoxious of them to do this. Spoke to the owners of Layside at decent length about how they expected to be impacted by it, and we all just felt really dejected about what had happened. Still a smashing stay though, and highly recommend Layside in spite of this.
To those saying it’s ‘just a tree’ it doesn’t matter that it was a tree, it had the same importance and significance as any other national monument, it was destroyed and was unable to be saved or rebuilt
I agree with you 100%. I have a chainsaw in my shed it wouldn't enter my head to just cut someone else's tree down. And it was someone else's tree. It belonged to everyone!!
A thoughtful video, thanks Eddy. The felling of this tree has caused genuine anger and hurt across the region, and beyond. It represented beauty, tradition, heritage and was an international symbol of Northumberland. If the defendants are found guilty I absolutely believe a custodial sentence is warranted.
No tree is "just" a tree without them we wouldn't be able to breathe its the worlds lungs...its not an accident the branches look like lungs. I do not understand why anyone would do that?
A tree can be hundreds of years old and can be viewed by many generations. They are features in many communities, and I have memories growing up of several. It's great seeing them and been drawn back to another time.
When i heard about this tree I quite simply was so upset and angry about it that I couldn't talk or watch any news about it until I started to watch you channel a few weeks ago, having said that, don't you think humans are weird ? all the people who outraged by this, they care more about a tree, historic sites and animals more than they care about other fellow humans or what is going on in the World at the moment and who is doing it to us. Another great video Tyneside.
Great video mate! Anyone saying “it’s just a tree” is being incredibly ignorant and you’ve done well to state the contrary. We have World Heritage Sites for a reason. What was their motivation do we know?
To those who say it's just a tree what if someone came and destroyed your home would that be ok because it's just a house and there's millions in the uk.
Anyone saying it’s just a tree obviously have zero empathy or passion for our country and heritage. They’re probably the type of people who throw their McDonald’s rubbish out of the car window
Another great video, I am really loving the local interest, the broad picture and the detail, but, most of all rising above the polarising nature of the story that many RUclipsrs would take a side on just for more likes from the side they pick. Most Awesome!
Another good video Eddie, However I would like to point out on the example you made, A house can be rebuilt within 6 months period, Nobody alive now would see the tree growing again to its original size! These 2 Evil characters have spoilt things for thousands of people, whatever has went on in their tiny brains they are very dangerous Men, If they can do this what else are they capable off? I would give them a indefinite sentence as they are a clear danger to the public and property! Cheers Mark!
You’ve misunderstood the reason for my example Mark. It’s clearly meant to represent the point that I would expect to receive a significant custodial sentence for this crime, of criminal damage.
Why would 2 grown men go to so much trouble to sneak out in the middle of the night to cut a tree down? Spite or mental issues. Either way, maximum sentence.
Ten years is too lenient. If you can get 2 years for defacing a painting that can be restored, then completely destroying something more valuable should receive a sentence multiple times higher.
Minor point - the Sycamore Gap tree wasn't *more* valuable than a Van Gogh. And the Van Gogh was unique, and a cultural treasure. IF they'd actually damaged the original painting (which fortunately was protected by glass) then I would have expected them to get a stiffer sentence than two years. A 'restoration' of a painting is never quite as good as the original. (You can of course always argue about how these things are valued). That said, I hope the tree cutters get everything that's coming to them, i.e. the the upper half of ten years.
I’d like to know what possible motive they could have had. Guess it could have been to get bragging rights amongst their mates. Maybe they were dared to do it!? They’ve certainly upset a lot of people.
It was more then just a tree....I think it's more the fact it was cut down more then blown down,that's got people worked up....What was the point ? Why were they so upset with the tree they decided to down it ? What will they do after the outcome ,? It wouldn't change these lads , they will just have a story to tell their family members. It will be part of history written for future references . Once the trial finishes the interest in the felling will fade ..But for us living in the local area. the effects of this heartless act will stay with us for alot longer...alot longer
Yes, it was only a sycamore in a deforested area. BUT what it also was, was a perfectly shaped tree in a symmetric location that was known all over the world. It HURT people all over the world and still does. It also is still hurting people living locally. Not just because of the tourism loss, but people who glanced up and had their hearts uplifted by seeing it. Also, one issue people have said to me is that they are worried that visitors think all of the residents are that willing to cause wanton damage like this. So basically such an action has insulted the residents I personally would never be able to get to the location due to disability but have always loved it.
My freind is from Stockton on Tees near Middlesbrough. If you didn't know you would just think he was a geordie. But he said you all have different accents round there (North east) he is known as a smog and Sunderland are mackem and Newcastle is geordie. I used to think you were all geordies, it's fascinating to me (A southener) He said if you called smog or a mackem a geordie, they are not happy and same if you call a geordie a mackem, especially 😂 We just call him gazza coz it erks him 😂😂
We divvnt mind smoggies tbh it's the mackems who are our enemies. I remember Bryan Robson joked, A mackem Is a watered doon geordie and a smoggie is a watered doon mackem 😅 I thought that wer quite funny
Well said eddy the tree was a famous figure it brought tourists to the wall and site generated money in to the area a lot of people from all over the world to see it
I managed to take my kids to the tree just a couple of years ago. They remember it well and are genuinely upset that this was done. I feel that they have lost a connection with an icon of their local area. I wanted to go and see the damage but they never want to go back. That's what upsets me most. This has affected my kids.
The tree was not only iconic but also sacred. The vandalism was a case of sacrelige. I'm guessing that if someone was to cut down one of the sacred trees of the ancient local Celtic tribe of the Brigantes they would be counting not the years but the minutes. I'm not suggesting so drastic a sentence, after all we are meant to be civilised. Civilisation implies respect not only for one another & another persons property but also every living thing. Yes, we fell many trees for our houses & furniture but also respect the virtues & gifts of each species. Here & there though there are special trees, trees considered to be holy, just as our ancient Celtic ancestors considered certain trees holy.
Whilst I applaud the extent to which this case has been pursued and prosecuted I cannot agree that it is a unique case. Because this tree is famous and it's loss has garnered significant attention the authorities have responded in an appropriate way meanwhile far greater environmental crimes go completely overlooked.
We need to differentiate (clearly) the difference between the tag line ‘environmental crimes’ of which you and I are guilty too and a crime in the criminal justice sense. Further, we can debate the level of environmental decline through fossil fuels, but that’s a different conversation. And we can be frustrated at the inertia surrounding the pollution of our lakes and rivers by water companies etc and holding them to account. Purposely Chopping down a National monument on an historical site, motivated by malice and intent was a distinct criminal act, contrary to the criminal laws of our country. It most certainly is unique in that respect.
Of course eddy i wasant meant to be critical of your comment it was a good video and thanks for showing it 👍🏻 we were up there last week by the way doing 3 sections of the wall it's a wonderful place 👌🏻
good video! I personally think the soup couple going down for 2 years was a bit harsh, given they probably didn't intend to cause damage (they probably assumed the glass would protect). But there was certainly intent in the case of cutting down the Sycamore gap tree.
The offence of criminal damage includes being reckless as to whether damage would be caused. I’ve personally have no sympathy for them. Attacking our cultural and historical institutions deserves the highest punishments
The most precious thing we have is nature and it needs to be cherished, love and cared for. For anyone that thinks "it's just a tree" please think again. Trees are living things just like humans. We need trees and plants in order to breathe. To destroy nature is to destroy ourselves.
This iconic sycamore tree was planted in the late 1800s (between 1860-1890) by the previous landowner, John Clayton to be a feature in the landscape. He wouldn't be allowed these days... so now you know
Lets imagine the tree was a 150yr old sculpture made by a very famous artist. Or lets imagine it was the statue of Sir Bobby Robson, for example. Then someone vandalised or destroyed it entirely. Would people still say "Its just a sculpture, move on". The object means so much more than the stuff it is or is made of. Man made sculptures can be repaired or replaced. This was in essence a living sculpture. Can never be replaced, can only be replanted with a different tree and maybe someday that tree will mean something to others is 200yrs, but its not the old tree. It meant a lot to a lot of people, not just another tree in a forest. Send em down! 10 years on the tax payers, worth every penny.
It's A big impact story For a reason . The logistic and skill involved in the cut - regardless of the timing to be stealthy and correct conditions. The sycamore was successfully felled for a reason . . . .
They knew exactly what they where upto. What goes through some peoples minds and why, we will never know. They deserve jail time. 10 years is a bit much. Public opinion will throw away the key in many cases!
Very interesting video. They should get a sentence. It's an absolute disgrace what these two despicable men have done,to a beautiful tree. What has the tree done to them ???.
Information like that isn’t available David, only speculation and conjecture. They’ve pleaded not guilty and obviously deny involvement. We’ll only find out at the trial 👍🏻
Its just a tree some say well its just a jail sentence im saying. We need to be setting examples with are laws. When something affects businesses and the locals the way this has, then 5yrs plus is the way ahead. I realy hope we find out why. They are men 30 plus yrs old id understand if a couple of youngsters did but two grown men. Wtf.
Pre cons ? Got to be said, I’m curious Eddy. A thing of beauty is a joy forever, well at least in this case, a couple of centuries. I think there are so many injured parties in this case, hence the interest. Let’s hope justice is done for all parties. Looking forward to your updates.
I’m moving to tynemouth from mcr very shortly I was looking forward to visiting this spot😢 I will still be coming never the less 👍🏻👍🏻ps I’m bringing a Geordie back home 😂
Worth noting maybe is that the 'Just Stop Oil' protesters, no matter how misguided you or I may think them, had sincere motives and knew beforehand that the Van Gogh was safe behind glass. Very different to whoever cut down the tree. Yet the law under which the protesters were prosecuted prevents them defending themselves by explaining their reasons, under pain of further contempt charges, whereas these two can defend themselves any way they choose.
You misunderstand the law and circumstances David. The defence ‘claimed’ they knew the painting was behind glass. They were still reckless as to whether criminal damage would be caused, to which there was. £10,000 worth of damage. The protesters were provided the exact same rights as anyone else in a trial, to defend themselves and explain their reasons, possible defences and mitigations. This is not contempt of court. Under the law they were found guilty The exact same rights are afforded to the Sycamore Gap suspects
@@TynesideLife Thank you. I was thinking of the removal of lawful excuse or the 'consent' defence in relation to various environmental protest trials. Admittedly the Van Gogh trial is a poor example and to be clear I don't agree with their action, any more than the attacks on Magna Carta and Stonehenge. Even so it is, I'd say, clearly different to the vandalism at the Sycamore Gap for which it's surprising there are any defenders at all..
![Stromae, Pomme - “Ma Meilleure Ennemie” (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Visualizer]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1F3OGIFnW1k/mqdefault.jpg)
Another excellent well researched and impartial presentation Eddy. Thank you. This is why you have so many followers.
Roger NZ
🙏👍🏻 thank you Roger
A building can be rebuilt. This tree will never be around again in my lifetime. Just mindless vandalism by grown men who should know better. I would imagine the two who did it probably already have criminal records.
I can only assume that the people saying "it is just a tree" have never actually witnessed it in person. It was beautiful, majestic, and a landmark, and DID feel spiritual and to destroy something that means so much to a lot of people is just so unnecessary, and in doing so, makes you wonder about the mindset of such a person, and even if such a callous person with no respect for beauty or history or nature or other peoples feelings should be allowed on our streets, the tree stood proud and strong and even if you have no sentimental attachment to it, (which i have) you could still respect and admire it for what it was
But yet it was still only a Feckin tree . No one has been injured it was wrong I get that but look at the world we’re in it’s hardly worth all the fuss . We got wars , immigration national disasters and a tree cut down WOW.
You’re doing a great job, please keep it up!
I think the loss of finances to local businesses, due to people not visiting the area (As the tree has gone) should be also taken into account. My opinion, it's mindless vandalism and if found guilty they should face the full 10 years.
It has been bud. Outlined in the video 👍🏻
If fine upstanding ordinary people can get imprisoned for 5 years for a 'tweet' then such an act of vandalism deserves more.
@ nobody has received a prison sentence for 5 years for a ‘tweet’ (euphemism noted) but sentenced for inciting racial hatred and violence on Twitter during a period of significant civil unrest has resulted in prison 👍🏻
@@TynesideLife One lass who had just finished her shift as a Care Assistant was understandably surprised to see the activity going on. She then quite naturally uploaded it onto a social media platform. She's now in prison. We are living under a Marxist dictatorship.
Yet the two lads who assaulted the coppers in Manchester walk free Ricky Jones insighting violence walks free...howay...a year to 2 year is more than enough. Nonces another one get suspended sentences
I just want to know why they did it & what they hoped they would benefit from it 😕
I'd like to know too, just before they're locked up for a 10 stretch (if found guilty).
So, word on the crag is that the tree got chopped because the public can't treat an area with respect so they don't deserve to have access to it, if access can't be removed then remove what they're coming to see or do.
Councils, Park management's and trusts have been doing it for centuries.
Apparently, some people got sick of Northumberland national park not maintaining its side of the arrangement in cleaning up and maintaining the area after the tramp tourists and city people who not only walk all over the wall but pick chunks of it up and throw it off Peel or Crag Lough itself, they also allow their rat dogs to harry the livestock and then scare, poison and kill the livestock themselves by littering, camping, setting fires, destroying the woodland and generally disrespecting the homes and livelihoods of over worked and under appreciated men and women. Or so Ive heard.
@@Bwa420I’m certain the Land Owner arranged it for that reason.
@@Bwa420
Ok so again the 1% of spoilers ruin it for us 99%!!
So good enough reason to chop it down?
@@Bwa420 You know shizz has gotten real when livestock are being harried.
Not to mention that the tree was also in a film with Kevin Costner, I visited it as a school boy and later with my family, I am now 73 and feel we have been robbed of an iconic national monument.
And also Morgan Freeman 👍
In my opinion it's HATE ! Wanting to destroy something to cause harm: To the tree, To the environment and harm to those that love the natural world that brings pleasure and forms our lifeblood. All this effort just so they could watch from their sad little room as millions of people were upset by the mindless and needless destruction of something good, that we could all be proud of and cherish ! This is a common theme nowadays and encouraged by millions of folk with a similar view online . The world is a nasty place just now and we need to stand against it.
Hate crime on a tree, they are really fukced then, we can't have that.
you do wonder if they might be angry about people liking the environment or something of that sort.
I totally agree with all the points the manager of Twice Brewed said. But do you know what bothers me the most? and you touched on it. It was over 200 years old, so when you think that the tree had been around through several centuries, both world wars and countless other things, it obviously was around long before any of us were around and would have been here long after all of us as well and was cut down for some petty grudge "allegedly" so yes that's exactly right its part of our heritage, and anything that is of historical value should be treated differently.
Exactly Martin ☝️👍🏻
Eddy, regular viewer here. I had a sycamore pollarded a year ago not far from steel rigg. Anyhow, by early summer that tree will have 3ft of shoots coming off it. Fast forward 10 years and it’ll be 25/30ft tall. Albeit it’ll look like a round bush. Stay positive and keep up the great journalism
Won't be much of a tree then.. 🙁
In a way, it's like a family heirloom in that the object itself may not be much, but it's the memories and history behind it that make it so important.
Exactly ☝️👍🏻
It's like someone knocking down Big Ben in London it's a monument of national importance no different to the Sycamore Gap tree and your youtube channel both of which are nationally important. 2 days to go til my birthday and I'll be in Newcastle and I can't wait. We'll done on another awesome video Eddy.
If the value is calculated based on its value to local community and businesses then it was worth a lot more than £600k.
That’s an interesting conversation and debate in itself 👍🏻
I live in the area. There is more to this story than is being revealed. Two men aren't going to chop down an iconic tree, at night, just on their own whim. Someone paid them to do it, and they need to speak up and say who, and that person has to also be brought to justice and made to pay a fine and prison sentence. It's National Trust property, but they will have leased the land from someone. Lots of people walk that route, many to just to see the Sycamore Gap tree and photograph and paint it etc. It was an important tree, but because of that, and the people it attracted onto the land, someone wanted it chopped down. The identity of that person is so secret that the two men on trial initially blamed a 16 year old apprentice. He, sensibly, spoke up. I thonk Caruthers is hiding his face because he doesn't want to be recognised because he will be associated with the person who paid them. There is more going on with this, and it isn't the time for these men to be silent to protect someone else.
Hi Amanda, the possible motives haven’t been suggested or ‘revealed’ in any of my videos on this.
I’m aware that there will be a significant reason for the motive and it’s certainly not on a whim. I’m also aware you’re repeating local speculation, rather than first hand knowledge.
What you’re claiming may or not turn out to be correct, but this isn’t the only motive that’s being speculated on. We’ll hopefully find out at court 👍🏻
I disagree. Chavs are chavs and whoever did this is the kind of person who destroys things because they enjoy upsetting people and enjoy the fact that they can take something away from people. They'd be the kind of people who liked stamping on live animals when children.
If any of that is true, then the whole lot are tw@s.
It’s the mentality of these (innocent until proven guilty) and people like them that needs to be addressed and rectified. That requires the law to step in to send a message that such behaviour unacceptable to a degree of sufficient deterrence.
The ten years is a maximum for the category.
And what about neighbours that cut down trees and hedging that do not belong to them,do they get 10 years?
@@jonathanlake6053 are those trees and hedges of national and international significance?
What a fantastic report! I'm here on a Friday night, sitting in a very privileged part of Sydney, Australia, having been brought up in Byker even before the Byker Wall was built, thinking that this is a sad episode in a Geordie culture I still hold dear to my heart some 45 years after leaving a region that formed all of my principles in life. Well done on your stance - and your coverage of this woeful incident, as well the neglect of present-day Byker, Gateshead High St. etc etc. Keep up the great work. It's much appreciated from the other side of the world!
Thank you Peter ☝️🙏👍🏻
They can't just let people walk away, everyone would start vandalism
There's always the arsehole factor. It's when arseholes do whatever it is they do to make them believe they are not arseholes but the most important person in the world who can do whatever they want.
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Well said Eddy. Every now and again a crime comes along where an example and precedent needs to be set, so further similar crimes, in this case to our heritage, will not be tolerated. This is most certainly one of those crimes. It strikes me as more than just mindless violence too, as a great deal of time and effort must have gone into reaching that isolated spot on a stormy night. It will be interesting to see what comes out in court as to their reasons for doing it.
Exactly Claire ☝️👍🏻
Great analysis. I hope they receive the full weight of the law.
Thank you for keeping this issue alive in the build up to the trial. Useful and important information, especially the focus on the local impact for individuals and businesses.
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Thanks for sharing this video Eddy. Your topics are so on cue & truthful. Yx
My heart goes out Steve at Twice brewed. This act is unforgettable.
The sycamore gap tree was important to loads of people.
I was getting married a month later in the October, and as a wedding gift me and the wife were gifted a short stay at a lovely B&B (Layside) for after our honeymoon - a B&B that overlooked Sycamore Gap - obviously booked before this happened. Not making it all about myself but naturally was very disappointed that this happened right before I got to see it. Still would be just as disappointed if it happened after my stay.
Just completely obnoxious of them to do this. Spoke to the owners of Layside at decent length about how they expected to be impacted by it, and we all just felt really dejected about what had happened.
Still a smashing stay though, and highly recommend Layside in spite of this.
To those saying it’s ‘just a tree’ it doesn’t matter that it was a tree, it had the same importance and significance as any other national monument, it was destroyed and was unable to be saved or rebuilt
Excellent research and report Eddy. Let’s hope this pair if found guilty feel the full force of the law.
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Class reporting. Keep it up
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Thank you for your reporting, Eddy. You have heart and soul, and are very fair minded.
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Tremendous report, Eddie. Really appreciated
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I agree with you 100%. I have a chainsaw in my shed it wouldn't enter my head to just cut someone else's tree down. And it was someone else's tree. It belonged to everyone!!
A thoughtful video, thanks Eddy.
The felling of this tree has caused genuine anger and hurt across the region, and beyond.
It represented beauty, tradition, heritage and was an international symbol of Northumberland.
If the defendants are found guilty I absolutely believe a custodial sentence is warranted.
No tree is "just" a tree without them we wouldn't be able to breathe its the worlds lungs...its not an accident the branches look like lungs. I do not understand why anyone would do that?
💯 Tw@s!
Just brilliant Eddy, I totally agree with you,a tragic event and they should be punished for it,hopefully 😢
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A tree can be hundreds of years old and can be viewed by many generations. They are features in many communities, and I have memories growing up of several. It's great seeing them and been drawn back to another time.
Excellent, as always Eddy. Well done and thank you 👍
Christmas will come early if they get 10 years.
My part of the world, so very lucky to live here. Yes,it is a tree,but it is a huge miss.Thanks for the report and Steve spoke well.
Your opinion is spot on Eddy, well done for keeping the attention on the tree - which I think will be sadly forgotten about after the trial
When i heard about this tree I quite simply was so upset and angry about it that I couldn't talk or watch any news about it until I started to watch you channel a few weeks ago, having said that, don't you think humans are weird ? all the people who outraged by this, they care more about a tree, historic sites and animals more than they care about other fellow humans or what is going on in the World at the moment and who is doing it to us. Another great video Tyneside.
Great video mate! Anyone saying “it’s just a tree” is being incredibly ignorant and you’ve done well to state the contrary. We have World Heritage Sites for a reason.
What was their motivation do we know?
Cheers. They’ve obviously denied responsibility and the police can’t discuss the case. We’ll hopefully have some answers at court 👍🏻
To those who say it's just a tree what if someone came and destroyed your home would that be ok because it's just a house and there's millions in the uk.
You’d think you’d copied that argument from my video… 😉
@@TynesideLife Have u been to walker ?
@@NUFC4everHardman99 are you commenting on the wrong video? 😅
@@TynesideLife 🤣 Aye, my bad. 🤷🏻♂️👍
Anyone saying it’s just a tree obviously have zero empathy or passion for our country and heritage. They’re probably the type of people who throw their McDonald’s rubbish out of the car window
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Another great video, I am really loving the local interest, the broad picture and the detail, but, most of all rising above the polarising nature of the story that many RUclipsrs would take a side on just for more likes from the side they pick. Most Awesome!
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This was my favourite place along the wall, I was shocked and I still am. Give em full 10 years.
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I agree with you, Hadrian's wall must be at least worth that much! Was this as a protest or what?
We don’t know yet Russell
Another good video Eddie, However I would like to point out on the example you made, A house can be rebuilt within 6 months period, Nobody alive now would see the tree growing again to its original size! These 2 Evil characters have spoilt things for thousands of people, whatever has went on in their tiny brains they are very dangerous Men, If they can do this what else are they capable off? I would give them a indefinite sentence as they are a clear danger to the public and property! Cheers Mark!
You’ve misunderstood the reason for my example Mark. It’s clearly meant to represent the point that I would expect to receive a significant custodial sentence for this crime, of criminal damage.
It was a north east land mark visited by thousands every year , don't matter that it was " just a tree "
North West landmark 😂👍
another great update eddy lad 👍 honest and informative , cheers bud 🤝
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It’s not just any old tree, either. It’s of historic value and part of British heritage.
They shoukd make a!replica in metal that shines in the sun. Would be fabulous .
Nice idea! 😯
Yeh man great idea, if it was done right it would be great.
Thanks from Brasil.
Why would 2 grown men go to so much trouble to sneak out in the middle of the night to cut a tree down? Spite or mental issues. Either way, maximum sentence.
That particular tree in its location is symbolic and that counts for a lot.
The thing is, a 200k House can be *REBUILT* Its gonna take decades for this Tree to regrow!
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Good stuff Ed...unrelated, I've just seen you turn up in another bloggers video lol...Mikes Travel Show from summer 2022 in glorious South Shields!
Oh wow haha
Ten years is too lenient. If you can get 2 years for defacing a painting that can be restored, then completely destroying something more valuable should receive a sentence multiple times higher.
The painting wasn't defaced....it was protected on a frame with glass.
Must have been a rubbish frame if some cold soup could damage it.
Minor point - the Sycamore Gap tree wasn't *more* valuable than a Van Gogh. And the Van Gogh was unique, and a cultural treasure. IF they'd actually damaged the original painting (which fortunately was protected by glass) then I would have expected them to get a stiffer sentence than two years. A 'restoration' of a painting is never quite as good as the original. (You can of course always argue about how these things are valued).
That said, I hope the tree cutters get everything that's coming to them, i.e. the the upper half of ten years.
Any sentence is too much if you can have child porn and not serve a day in prison. This country is finished.
It’s all way a pleasure watching your channel keep it up
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I’d like to know what possible motive they could have had. Guess it could have been to get bragging rights amongst their mates. Maybe they were dared to do it!?
They’ve certainly upset a lot of people.
Fully appreciate and agree with your thoughts 👏
It was more then just a tree....I think it's more the fact it was cut down more then blown down,that's got people worked up....What was the point ? Why were they so upset with the tree they decided to down it ? What will they do after the outcome ,? It wouldn't change these lads , they will just have a story to tell their family members. It will be part of history written for future references . Once the trial finishes the interest in the felling will fade ..But for us living in the local area. the effects of this heartless act will stay with us for alot longer...alot longer
Love your passion for the area Eddy, keep up the good work!
Yes, it was only a sycamore in a deforested area.
BUT what it also was, was a perfectly shaped tree in a symmetric location that was known all over the world.
It HURT people all over the world and still does. It also is still hurting people living locally. Not just because of the tourism loss, but people who glanced up and had their hearts uplifted by seeing it.
Also, one issue people have said to me is that they are worried that visitors think all of the residents are that willing to cause wanton damage like this. So basically such an action has insulted the residents
I personally would never be able to get to the location due to disability but have always loved it.
Thank you for sharing Dawn
Brilliant as always eddy
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My freind is from Stockton on Tees near Middlesbrough.
If you didn't know you would just think he was a geordie.
But he said you all have different accents round there (North east) he is known as a smog and Sunderland are mackem and Newcastle is geordie.
I used to think you were all geordies, it's fascinating to me (A southener)
He said if you called smog or a mackem a geordie, they are not happy and same if you call a geordie a mackem, especially 😂
We just call him gazza coz it erks him 😂😂
We divvnt mind smoggies tbh it's the mackems who are our enemies.
I remember Bryan Robson joked, A mackem Is a watered doon geordie and a smoggie is a watered doon mackem 😅 I thought that wer quite funny
As they will only serve a third to a half of their sentence, I hope they do get 10 years
Well said eddy the tree was a famous figure it brought tourists to the wall and site generated money in to the area a lot of people from all over the world to see it
I managed to take my kids to the tree just a couple of years ago. They remember it well and are genuinely upset that this was done. I feel that they have lost a connection with an icon of their local area. I wanted to go and see the damage but they never want to go back. That's what upsets me most. This has affected my kids.
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The tree was not only iconic but also sacred. The vandalism was a case of sacrelige. I'm guessing that if someone was to cut down one of the sacred trees of the ancient local Celtic tribe of the Brigantes they would be counting not the years but the minutes. I'm not suggesting so drastic a sentence, after all we are meant to be civilised. Civilisation implies respect not only for one another & another persons property but also every living thing. Yes, we fell many trees for our houses & furniture but also respect the virtues & gifts of each species. Here & there though there are special trees, trees considered to be holy, just as our ancient Celtic ancestors considered certain trees holy.
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Has the motive been revealed yet? It's what's confusing me the most.
Whilst I applaud the extent to which this case has been pursued and prosecuted I cannot agree that it is a unique case. Because this tree is famous and it's loss has garnered significant attention the authorities have responded in an appropriate way meanwhile far greater environmental crimes go completely overlooked.
We need to differentiate (clearly) the difference between the tag line ‘environmental crimes’ of which you and I are guilty too and a crime in the criminal justice sense.
Further, we can debate the level of environmental decline through fossil fuels, but that’s a different conversation. And we can be frustrated at the inertia surrounding the pollution of our lakes and rivers by water companies etc and holding them to account.
Purposely Chopping down a National monument on an historical site, motivated by malice and intent was a distinct criminal act, contrary to the criminal laws of our country. It most certainly is unique in that respect.
You can replace a house this tree will never be the same regardless of anything that is done 😢
The point of the example was to show that one would expect a custodial sentence for criminal damage by destroying a home
Of course eddy i wasant meant to be critical of your comment it was a good video and thanks for showing it 👍🏻 we were up there last week by the way doing 3 sections of the wall it's a wonderful place 👌🏻
good video! I personally think the soup couple going down for 2 years was a bit harsh, given they probably didn't intend to cause damage (they probably assumed the glass would protect). But there was certainly intent in the case of cutting down the Sycamore gap tree.
The offence of criminal damage includes being reckless as to whether damage would be caused. I’ve personally have no sympathy for them.
Attacking our cultural and historical institutions deserves the highest punishments
The most precious thing we have is nature and it needs to be cherished, love and cared for. For anyone that thinks "it's just a tree" please think again. Trees are living things just like humans. We need trees and plants in order to breathe. To destroy nature is to destroy ourselves.
This iconic sycamore tree was planted in the late 1800s (between 1860-1890) by the previous landowner, John Clayton to be a feature in the landscape. He wouldn't be allowed these days... so now you know
You’ll need to elaborate on your point 🤷🏻♂️
Thanks for this Eddy. Very interesting. Top notch work as usual 👍
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Lets imagine the tree was a 150yr old sculpture made by a very famous artist. Or lets imagine it was the statue of Sir Bobby Robson, for example. Then someone vandalised or destroyed it entirely. Would people still say "Its just a sculpture, move on". The object means so much more than the stuff it is or is made of.
Man made sculptures can be repaired or replaced. This was in essence a living sculpture. Can never be replaced, can only be replanted with a different tree and maybe someday that tree will mean something to others
is 200yrs, but its not the old tree. It meant a lot to a lot of people, not just another tree in a forest.
Send em down! 10 years on the tax payers, worth every penny.
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Great video Eddy Keep up the great Work Eddy
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Eddie I've oil painted I'm guessing just before it was felled ....
It's A big impact story For a reason .
The logistic and skill involved in the cut - regardless of the timing to be stealthy and correct conditions.
The sycamore was successfully felled for a reason . . . .
What was their reason to chop it down?
Its a bit like they kiled an angel..😢. A quiet ancient being emanating nothing but good
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What was the motive though? Dendrophilia?
maybe dendrophobia?
They knew exactly what they where upto. What goes through some peoples minds and why, we will never know. They deserve jail time. 10 years is a bit much. Public opinion will throw away the key in many cases!
Very interesting video. They should get a sentence. It's an absolute disgrace what these two despicable men have done,to a beautiful tree. What has the tree done to them ???.
Eddie please can you do a quick video on the suspects and why they did it in the first place? I read something ages ago and can’t find it
Information like that isn’t available David, only speculation and conjecture. They’ve pleaded not guilty and obviously deny involvement.
We’ll only find out at the trial 👍🏻
Great video Eddy
Spot on, Eddy
Its just a tree some say well its just a jail sentence im saying. We need to be setting examples with are laws. When something affects businesses and the locals the way this has, then 5yrs plus is the way ahead. I realy hope we find out why. They are men 30 plus yrs old id understand if a couple of youngsters did but two grown men. Wtf.
Pre cons ? Got to be said, I’m curious Eddy. A thing of beauty is a joy forever, well at least in this case, a couple of centuries. I think there are so many injured parties in this case, hence the interest. Let’s hope justice is done for all parties. Looking forward to your updates.
£600K is not enough, more like £60M at least.
As iconic as the 'Angel Of The North'.
I’m moving to tynemouth from mcr very shortly I was looking forward to visiting this spot😢 I will still be coming never the less 👍🏻👍🏻ps I’m bringing a Geordie back home 😂
Going to Tynemouth from Manchester sounds great, my son lives in Media City, tbf I quite like Manchester and Salford… 👍
@ mcr is fab but I just love it up there it’s just lovely place and great people 👍🏻
Agree with you 100% .
Do you think the tree was chopped down to suit the rich, the tree is now ashtrays and matchstick holders in someone’s wealthy country estate
No.
Isn't there an offence of 'outraging public morals' : If this is not an example of outraging the public, what is?
Nope. What is an example of outraging public morals?
Worth noting maybe is that the 'Just Stop Oil' protesters, no matter how misguided you or I may think them, had sincere motives and knew beforehand that the Van Gogh was safe behind glass. Very different to whoever cut down the tree.
Yet the law under which the protesters were prosecuted prevents them defending themselves by explaining their reasons, under pain of further contempt charges, whereas these two can defend themselves any way they choose.
You misunderstand the law and circumstances David.
The defence ‘claimed’ they knew the painting was behind glass. They were still reckless as to whether criminal damage would be caused, to which there was. £10,000 worth of damage.
The protesters were provided the exact same rights as anyone else in a trial, to defend themselves and explain their reasons, possible defences and mitigations. This is not contempt of court.
Under the law they were found guilty
The exact same rights are afforded to the Sycamore Gap suspects
@@TynesideLife Thank you.
I was thinking of the removal of lawful excuse or the 'consent' defence in relation to various environmental protest trials. Admittedly the Van Gogh trial is a poor example and to be clear I don't agree with their action, any more than the attacks on Magna Carta and Stonehenge. Even so it is, I'd say, clearly different to the vandalism at the Sycamore Gap for which it's surprising there are any defenders at all..
spot on Eddie
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Good! Glad they were caught: hope they are jailed!
hope you have your thermals on eddie
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