Illness delays trial of men charged with cutting down Britain’s scenic Sycamore Gap tree

Associated Press

LONDON (AP) — The trial of two men charged with cutting down the majestic Sycamore Gap tree last year along Hadrian’s Wall in northern England has been postponed until next year. The case was postponed Monday until the week of Jan. 6 in Newcastle Crown Court after a defense lawyer said one defendant was too ill to attend. The two men have pleaded not guilty to counts of criminal damage on charges related to toppling the tree and damaging the ancient wall built by Emperor Hadrian in A.D. 122. It was a beloved spot to visit for locals and a favorite subject for photographers.