One half of the Hairy Bikers, Si King, has expressed his outrage after the deliberate felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree.

Found near Hadrian's Wall alongside Crag Lough in Northumberland, the tree was once touted as one of the UK's most photographed landmarks and is a firm favourite with visitors.

Its verdant majesty and unique location garnered it the 2016 England Tree of the Year award and a memorable spot in the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Si King, a North East native himself, voiced his anger in a pointed message.

Hexham Courant: Hairy Biker Si KingHairy Biker Si King (Image: Hairy Bikers)

He said: "I've just been made aware that we've lost the sycamore at Sycamore Gap, somebody has felled it apparently.

"Well I hope whoever's done that has a conscience because you've just murdered a sentinel of time and elemental spirit of Northumberland. "And I hope you feel really good about yourself for whatever warped reason you've done it, it's shocking. "I'm beyond words."

The National Trust said the tragedy "appears to be an act of vandalism".

The trust said: "We know just how much this iconic tree is loved locally, nationally and by everyone who has visited.

"We are working with our partners to understand what has happened and what can be done."

A 16-year-old boy has since been arrested in connection to the felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree.

Hexham Courant: The iconic Sycamore Gap tree. Picture by Ash SimpsonThe iconic Sycamore Gap tree. Picture by Ash Simpson (Image: Ash Simpson)

The Hairy Bikers are a British television presenting duo, consisting of Si King and Barrow-born Dave Myers.

They are best known for their television shows, where they explore the culture and cuisine of regions around the world while travelling by motorcycle.

They have also written several cookbooks together and also star in The Hairy Bikers - Agony Uncles podcast together.

Follow the Sycamore Gap tree live blog here.