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A MAN in his sixties has been arrested alongside a 16-year-old boy after the Sycamore Gap tree at Hadrian's Wall was chopped down.

The Sycamore Gap tree, which featured in blockbuster Robin Hood: The Prince of Thieves, was destroyed yesterday.

The bare stump of the Sycamore Gap tree
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The bare stump of the Sycamore Gap treeCredit: PA

Cops said a man in his sixties has now been arrested over the felling of the tree.

A 16-year-old boy also arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage has now been released on bail pending further enquiries.

last night reported cops were probing whether the tree was felled as part of TikTok stunt.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies said: "The senseless destruction of what is undoubtedly a world-renowned landmark - and a local treasure - has quite rightly resulted in an outpouring of shock, horror and anger throughout the North East and further afield.

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"I hope this second arrest demonstrates just how seriously we're taking this situation, and our ongoing commitment to find those responsible and bring them to justice.

"Although another arrest has been made, this investigation is still in the early stages, and we would continue to encourage any members of the public with information which may assist to get in touch.

"If you've seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us - I'd implore you to contact us.

"I'd also like to remind the public that this remains a live investigation so, for that reason, please avoid any speculation both in the community and on social media.

"Any information - no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be - could prove absolutely crucial to our enquiries."

People can contact the force via the Tell Us Something page of its website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20230928-0295

Speculation has continued to mount over why and how the tree was felled as it emerged the chopper struck in the dead of night.

Northumbria Police confirmed they are keeping an "open mind" as the investigation continues.

The Northumberland National Park authority is working with officers to unravel the riddle and believe it was "deliberately" cut down.

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