Norfolk Wildlife Trust announces new President

During yesterday's AGM, Norfolk Wildlife Trust welcomed national journalist and award-winning natural history writer, Patrick Barkham, as its new President.

Patrick takes over from Bill Jordan, who joined as NWT President in 2011 and has been in the role for 10 years. Bill Jordan is well known for his advocacy of conservation grade crops and co-founding Jordan's Cereals. His commitment to conservation in Norfolk relates not only to NWT but also Pensthorpe Natural Park.

Patrick Barkham is a natural history writer for The Guardian where he has worked for the last 20 years, reporting on everything from the Iraq War to climate change. His first book, The Butterfly Isles, was shortlisted for the 2011 Royal Society of Literature Ondaatje prize. His next book, Badgerlands, was hailed by Chris Packham as "a must read for all Britain's naturalists".

Patrick has a longstanding relationship with NWT, as a member and having given talks and written about the Trust's work for many years. He was born and raised in Norfolk and his father, John, played a key role in helping the Trust acquire Foxley Wood. Patrick returned to live in Norfolk with his family in 2011.

Patrick Barkham said: "I was fortunate enough to grow up with an NWT reserve next door - Booton Common - and I feel that everyone should have an opportunity to enjoy the glorious wildlife on our doorsteps here in Norfolk.

"It is a massive honour to be made President and I will do everything I can to help NWT protect wildlife both on nature reserves and beyond them, so we can all enjoy the great benefits of a nature-rich Norfolk - at a time when we need a wilder world more than ever."

Alice Liddle, Chair of Norfolk Wildlife Trust, said: "We are so pleased to welcome Patrick as President. We are delighted at our shared commitment to raising awareness of vital issues for the natural world, and engaging the hearts and minds of our communities to take action to secure a wildlife-rich future for the county and beyond.

"Our deepest gratitude to Bill Jordan, who leaves the role after 10 years. As well as supporting and advocating our work, Bill has also shown a huge commitment to Norfolk's wildlife through his own work at Pensthorpe Natural Park since 2003. Bill has been a great asset to NWT, believing in the restoration and reconnection of habitats, conservation of species as well as the engagement of people."

Outgoing president, Bill Jordan, said: "It is fantastic to witness the achievements of the charity as it ends its 95th year and I am proud to have played a part in its commitment to wildlife in Norfolk. This work is needed now more than ever and I look forward to continuing to support the Trust."

This week's AGM also saw Norfolk Wildlife Trust reflecting on the last 12 months and new Chief Executive, Eliot Lyne, setting its vision and priorities for the next 4 years leading to its centenary, including the importance of sustainability and inclusivity in NWT's work.