Sycamore Gap sapling stolen from Wray Castle in Ambleside
Police seek information on theft of symbolic tree sapling
Last updated 3 hours ago
Police are investigating the theft of a Sycamore Gap tree sapling from Wray Castle in Ambleside.
Reports indicate the sapling was removed from the ground sometime between 9th June and 16th June 2026.
The sapling was gifted to the Lake District National Park and planted in April.
It originated from seeds of the iconic tree at Hadrian’s Wall, which was illegally felled in 2023.
The sapling is part of Branches of Care, a wellbeing initiative by the National Trust and St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston, aimed at supporting individuals experiencing illness, dementia, and bereavement through nature.
Police are collaborating with the National Trust as part of ongoing enquiries.
They urge anyone with information regarding the theft or any visitor who may assist in narrowing down the timeframe of the incident to contact them, quoting crime reference number CRI10053058.
Reports can be submitted online via www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or by calling 101.
Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.