Eight new shoots emerge from Sycamore Gap stump

The shoots have emerged from the base of the stump, fuelling hopes the historic tree lives on 10 months after it was illegally cut down.

The National Trust and Northumberland National Park Authority hope the shoots will develop significant growth and form "new" trees around the original stump.

National park ranger Gary Pickles, who found the shoots, said: "It was serendipitous that I decided to walk up to Sycamore Gap to recce a guided walk planned for September, almost a year to the anniversary.

"I've done this walk several times over the last year, but this time it was different, there was something new - the trunk was showing signs of regeneration.

"I was first at the scene when the tree was discovered felled, and I remember saying hurriedly that it was gone. Now, I hope I can say that it's back.

"My job as ranger for Hadrian's Wall Path is all about conserving the past. So, in my head I had consigned the tree to history and so I am amazed and delighted that it may have a future after all and is making a go of it."

All shoots to be left to grow

Andrew Poad, general manager for the National Trust at Hadrian's Wall, said: "The tree was a mature, vigorous tree in its prime when it was felled so there was always the potential for the stump to regenerate and it's fantastic to see the regrowth.

"Our aim is to leave all eight shoots to grow for a few years - to see how they develop.

"In time we'll be able to decide how to manage the tree - as a coppiced stool or considering whether to reduce to a single tree at some point in the future.

"We'll also do what we can to protect the root zone, and to avoid any compaction."

Next few weeks and months 'vitally important'

The public has been urged not to touch the shoots.

Mr Poad said: "The next few weeks and months are vitally important for the success of these shoots forming into the reinvigorated tree.

"We respectfully ask that any visitors to the site keep away from the stump and to not touch the shoots.

"We appreciate what a special location this is to many people, but we are asking people not to leave ashes in the area - either on the stump or the surrounding ground - as they could significantly hinder the growing process by limiting the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil."

Seedlings continue to flourish

The Sycamore Gap tree was among the most photographed trees in the UK and was made famous in a scene in Kevin Costner's 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves.

Seedlings gathered after the tree was felled continue to flourish at the National Trust's Plant Conservation Centre.

Saplings will possibly be planted in the next two years.

Two men will appear in court on 27 August charged with causing criminal damage to the tree and to Hadrian's Wall.

-SKY NEWS