A man in his 60s has been arrested by officers investigating the felling of the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree on Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, police said.

The man was arrested on Friday night in connection with the felling of the tree and remains in police custody assisting officers with investigations, Northumbria Police said.

It comes after a 16-year-old boy was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of criminal damage and released on bail pending further inquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies, of Northumbria Police, said: “The senseless destruction of what is undoubtedly a world-renowned monument – and a local treasure – has rightly resulted in an outpouring of shock. , horror and anger throughout the northeast. and further away.

“I hope this second arrest demonstrates how seriously we take this situation and our continued commitment to finding those responsible and bringing them to justice.

“Although another arrest has been made, this investigation is still in the early stages and we will continue to encourage any members of the public who have information that can help to get in touch.

“If you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, I implore you to contact us.

“I would also like to remind the public that this is still a live investigation so, for that reason, please avoid any speculation both in the community and on social media.

“Any information, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, could prove absolutely crucial to our investigations.”