Thieves have stolen a young tree propagated from the renowned Sycamore Gap tree, which was unlawfully cut down in 2023.

The sapling, cultivated from acorns of the iconic tree at a National Trust estate in the Lake District, was reported missing by devastated staff on Thursday.

Authorities are currently probing the incident at the National Trust-managed Wray Parkland and Castle, urging individuals with knowledge about the theft to come forward and provide information.

Staff members at the National Trust site, situated on the western shore of Lake Windermere, expressed their shock and sadness over the incident, collaborating with Cumbria Police, as per Chronicle Live.

Laura Lee, the general manager of the National Trust in the region, expressed disappointment, stating that a sapling derived from seeds of the beloved tree at Hadrian’s Wall had been pilfered. This particular sapling was among fifteen others planted in various UK National Parks as symbols of hope and resilience in the protected landscapes.

The stolen tree had a significant role in launching ‘Branches of Care,’ a collaborative wellness initiative by the National Trust and St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston, aiding individuals coping with illness, dementia, and loss through nature.

Numerous Sycamore Gap seedlings have been planted across the UK’s National Parks, aiming to establish a living heritage that connects the country’s most safeguarded landscapes.

In a separate incident in July 2025, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers were sentenced to over four years in prison for illegally felling the Sycamore Gap tree in a reprehensible nighttime act. While some appreciated the verdict, families impacted by violent crimes criticized the sentence as inadequate.

Ms. Lee emphasized the significance of the stolen tree as a symbol of resilience and rejuvenation, urging those involved in the theft to return the sapling or provide any relevant information. Despite this setback, the tree’s spirit of care, restoration, and community support endures.

Individuals possessing information regarding the theft are encouraged to contact the authorities, citing crime reference number CRI10053058. Reports can be submitted online through www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or by dialing 101. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be shared with Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.