Feature

After more than twenty years in rented accommodation, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) completed the move to a new Head Office in the heart of Dorset in July, funded from investment as a result of a generous legacy. The Official opening of ARC’s new Pad! By Anju Sarpal - Communications & Outreach Manager & Angela Reynolds - Hop Gossip Editor

The new office based on the ground floor of 744 Christchurch Road in Boscombe, Bournemouth has been refurbished throughout by the Trust and the official opening in November was marked by guests, comprising of ARC Trustees, staffand volunteers. All were thrilled to welcome ARC Patron, zoologist and BBC Springwatch presenter, Lucy Cooke who opened the new office by cutting a ribbon with a pair of loppers!

Dr Tony Gent, ARC’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our new Head Office provides a modern and inspiring space in

which our staff, Trustees and volunteers can flourish and thrive. Celebrating our official opening with the help of ARC patron, Lucy Cooke was a fitting start to this new era. Thank you to Lucy for her enthusiastic support and we look forward to working closely with her in the future.”

The afternoon event featured a presentation delivered by Dr Gent about ARC’s humble beginnings as The Herpetological Conservation Trust (HCT), and the events which led to its creation. The PowerPoint included photos from times gone by of conservation work parties consisting of some of our current Trustees! A testament to the enthusiasm and loyalty of their lifelong passion towards the conservation of our British amphibians and reptiles.

A passion for exploration and research has taken Lucy all over the world to get up close and personal with some pretty spectacular amphibian specimens. The fascinating speech concluded with a promise to raise awareness at every opportunity to encourage support both for ARC and our very special native species.

After some delicious food and a bit of bubbly, our Senior Reserves Manager, Gary Powell took Lucy on a tour of one of ARC’s flagship reserves, St. Catherine’s Hill, to round off the day. Thank you to everyone who joined us in marking this momentous occasion, which was the second

highest trending story in Dorset that week!. "My passion for conservation comes from my childhood love of frogs, which led me as a graduate to travel the world in search of rare species as a documentary maker. Essentially I’m a storyteller and would love the opportunity to tell the story of our native amphibian and reptiles and raise the profile of those working on the frontline so am looking forward to visiting ARC’s habitats next spring" said Lucy.

Photos page 10 - Top right: Lucy gave an engaging presentation. Middle: Inside the new office. Page 11 - top right: Lucy officially opened the office by cutting a ribbon with a pair of loppers! Middle: Inside the new office. Bottom: Lucy with ARC Trustees. © ARC.