Born in the East End of London my parents moved to Dunstable when I was 4. Growing up in rural Bedfordshire I spent much of my time birding local ‘hotspots such as Dunstable Downs, Sewage Works, The Lodge RSPB HQ and local farmland. Regular trips to Norfolk brought great excitement with coastal birding and rarities.
Birdwatching has been my passion for almost 60 years and has dominated my spare time since retiring. Most of my career was spent in Production/Manufacturing Management having worked in the Hi-fi, Motor Vehicle and Food industries.
Since moving to Kent in the early 2000’s I have become more involved in local wildlife organisations including voluntary Wardening at what was RSPB Elmley, where I worked in habitat and Stock management looking after Cattle and Sheep and liaising with visitors and stakeholders. An active member of the RSPB and BTO since the 70’s I presently survey three tetrads in North Kent for the Breeding Bird Survey.
I completed a Foundation Degree in Applied Ornithology gained through Hull University during which time I was involved in several surveys including The Habitat Preference and Usage of Northern Lapwing and Eurasian Golden Plover on the Isle of Sheppey and The Feeding Rate versus Success Rate in Two Wader Species on Coastal Mudflats. It was while studying for my Degree I developed an interest in Bird Ringing.
Having previously organised and led birdwatching trips to Europe, Africa, Asia and the UK, earlier this year I led a highly successful trip on behalf of SBBOT to Goa.
Living in Kent for over 20 years and a member of ‘The Bay’ for most of that time, I have participated in its ringing programme as a trainee and attended the Thursday evening lectures regularly as well as supporting weekend activities. I now live within a mile of the Observatory and would like to become more involved in the local community by contributing to the organisation’s aims and objectives, sharing my experiences and knowledge where applicable.