A sapling from Sycamore Gap has been stolen from a Lake District site.
The sapling was gifted to the Lake District National Park and planted at Wray Castle, near Ambleside, in April.
It was grown from seeds from the tree at Hadrian’s Wall that was illegally felled in 2023 and one of 15 saplings planted across national parks in England.
Laura Lee, general manager Lake District, Lakes & Eden Properties, said: “We are shocked and saddened that a sapling from the Sycamore Gap tree that was gifted to the Lake District National Park and planted at Wray has been stolen.
“This tree symbolised resilience and renewal, and its loss will be deeply felt. We are working with Cumbria police and ask anyone with information to come forward.
“While this is a setback, it does not undermine the spirit the tree represents. Acts of care, restoration, and community support remain far stronger.
“We urge those involved to do the right thing, return the sapling, or come forward. The tree belongs to everyone.”
The sapling also helped launch Branches of Care, a joint wellbeing initiative by the National Trust and St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston supporting people experiencing illness, dementia, and bereavement through nature.
Anyone who has any information relating to the theft is asked to contact police quoting crime reference number CRI10053058.
Report online via www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or call 101.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
