Sycamore Gap: second man released from prison

Daniel Graham released after prison term

The 41-year-old and his friend, Adam Carruthers, were jailed last July for felling the famous sycamore in Northumberland in September 2023. 

The tree, which had stood for more than a century near Hadrian’s Wall, was a well-known landmark featured in photographs and films. 

When it was brought down overnight, it fell onto the ancient wall, causing damage to the historic monument.

The pair were convicted of criminal damage, with Newcastle Crown Court hearing that their actions amounted to a “moronic mission” to destroy the tree.

They were each sentenced to four years and three months in prison, but the judge, Mrs Justice Lambert, ruled that they would serve 40% of their terms behind bars, with the remainder spent in the community on licence.

Carruthers was released in April 2026, five months before Graham. Graham has now also completed his time in custody, including the period he spent on remand before sentencing.

His release does not mean he is free from restrictions. Being released on licence means Graham must follow specific conditions and can be returned to prison if he breaches them.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “The felling of the Sycamore Gap tree was a disgraceful crime.” They added that offenders released on licence are “subject to strict conditions and can be returned to prison immediately if they breach them.”