The Sydney Long Memorial Medal is awarded jointly by us and the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society (NNNS) every two years for an outstanding contribution to the county's natural history.

In a break from tradition during our centenary year, not one, but two medal winners have been announced ahead of a special presentation event at Cley Marshes tomorrow.

Carl Chapman is a former chair of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society and a long-standing Council member. His major contribution to Norfolk’s nature has been as an informal educator, using his considerable knowledge to inform others both through his wildlife tour-leading and publications. He initiated and has remained head of the Liaison Committee of NNNS, which facilitates cooperation between wildlife organisations in Norfolk. More recently, Carl became a County Recorder for cetaceans, in 2025 publishing Whales and Whaling in Norfolk, documenting sightings of cetaceans in the county since 1255.

Alice Liddle has given a significant voluntary contribution to the conservation of Norfolk’s wildlife and wild places through her voluntary roles as our Trustee, Chair, and now Vice President. Alice has been a Trustee for nine years, with six of these spent as Chair of Trustees. Alice continues to provide us with legal assistance and support as Vice President.

Former Chairman of the Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists' Society, Tony Leech said of award winner, Carl Chapman: “Carl has two passions, wildlife and educating people about it - he enthused many about the special wildlife in Norfolk and beyond. 

“Generous with his knowledge and time, Carl has put a great deal of energy into the activities of both Norfolk Wildlife Trust and Norfolk and Norwich Naturalists’ Society. As well as playing a key role in both organisations, he worked to join wildlife organisations in Norfolk together, supporting the collective effort to protect and restore our county’s wildlife over many decades. He is a worthy recipient of this significant accolade!”

Eliot Lyne, our CEO, said of Alice Liddle’s award: ‘Alice has led Norfolk Wildlife Trust with passion, skill and a calm confidence through a time characterised by the growing reality of our climate and biodiversity crisis and a global pandemic.

‘With her support, we reach our centenary in rude health and with growing ambition to tackle the significant challenges Norfolk’s nature faces. We are delighted to recognise Alice, whose immense skill, generosity and unwavering commitment to Norfolk’s wildlife have made a great many of the successes we are celebrating during this special year possible.’

On hearing about his award, Carl Chapman said: 'I would like to express my profound appreciation in the nomination for the Sydney Long medal award. The presentation was far from expected or even considered.'