One of the most iconic landmarks in Northumberland has been severely damaged overnight as the famous tree at Sycamore Gap has been felled. Police are investigating what appears to be a deliberate act of vandalism.

The tree was voted Tree of the Year in 2016 and has appeared in films and music videos. The site near Humshaugh attracted tourists from around the world and was one of Northumberland's most treasured tourism assets.

Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson recently joined Hexham MP Guy Opperman on a sponsored walk to the tree in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity. Speaking about the tragic felling of the tree, Cllr Sanderson said:

"Today is a very sad day for our county. 

“I am finding it difficult to express the shock, anger and hurt I feel at the destruction of this iconic landmark. 

“The Sycamore Gap tree has stood for centuries and is known throughout the world. For it to be felled in what is clearly a deliberate act is absolutely terrible and I’m sure I speak for everyone in the county when I say how upset I was when I heard the news this morning. 

“We will of course be supporting the Northumberland National Park and all other agencies to see what can be done going forward, but at this time all I can do is share in the sadness caused by this apparently senseless act of vandalism.”

Guy Opperman said:

"This is so much part of our landscape, it's part of our history, it's part of our culture - it's one of the most famous trees in the world. It's certainly the most famous sycamore tree in the world.

"For someone to do this - and yes, the Wall continues and the landscape continues and yes, trees fall in storms - but for someone to do this deliberately is beyond belief."

Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay said:

"Like everyone across the North East, and far beyond, I am heartbroken at the loss of this iconic part of our nation's heritage. It is unfathomable that anyone would want to deny future generations the opportunity to have their lives enriched, as those of so many people from all over the world have been, by this breathtaking site.

"I am glad that Northumbria Police are investigating this matter so urgently, and I've been in touch with Hadrian's Wall Partnership Board to offer my condolences and support as we all try to process this dreadful news."