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Will you protect wildlife on your doorstep?

A few of our fantastic pledgers share their stories with us about why they generously want to support the wildlife and wild places in Essex for the future.

Lisa and Philip

“We adore Fingringhoe Wick; the nightingales there are heart-lifting and glorious, we love Hanningfield (especially at bluebell time) and the Trust’s Blue House Farm nature reserve in winter has an unmatched desolate beauty as well as gorgeous wintering brent geese.”

“My name is Lisa and I have always been interested in the natural world. My mother and grandma always noticed birds and an old Observers Book of Birds was well-thumbed by me as a girl. Also, my dad would take us on visits to the rugged North York Moors, in my native Yorkshire. As often happens, ‘life’ then intervened for many years, but about 15 years ago my interest was rekindled by a visit to the Bass Rock. There was no stopping me then and I soon realised how lucky I am to be in Essex, a fabulous place with the most amazing wildlife and habitat diversity. Becoming a member of Essex Wildlife Trust was simply a natural step - and one my husband, Philip, and I have never regretted. We are impressed with the way the organisation conducts itself and, importantly, picks its battles well.

We adore Fingringhoe Wick; the nightingales there are heart-lifting and glorious, we love Hanningfield (especially at bluebell time) and the Trust’s Blue House Farm nature reserve in winter has an unmatched desolate beauty as well as gorgeous wintering brent geese. Spotting a bathing peregrine falcon at Chafford Gorges and a kingfisher at Two Tree Island will always be major highlights for us.

I love reserves, but these isolated jewels alone are not enough. Essex Wildlife Trust’s campaign for a wilder and more connected landscape is just the sort of thing that is needed. I am also concerned about the lack of thought which goes into so many aspects of the world today, for example, building new estates with no thought for wildlife when simple items such as swift bricks and connected gardens can make such a difference.

I believe it is never too early to make a Will; If Covid has taught us anything, it is that we do not know what is around the corner and it is important to me that my money goes to causes that are close to my heart and have brought me enjoyment in life; Essex Wildlife Trust is such cause - in spade-loads!”

Lisa and Philip

“I have been a supporter of Essex Wildlife Trust for this long because I fundamentally agree with protecting wild spaces and the work that they do. I am a member of Essex Wildlife Trust and RSPB, as both charities are needed to protect as many places as possible from human beings and their actions.

This is also why I have left money in my Will to both organisations (along with other charities), as it simply is the logical and reasonable step to take with whatever money I have left when I die.”

Keith

“I have been a supporter of Essex Wildlife Trust for this long because I fundamentally agree with protecting wild spaces and the work that they do.”

“Why have I left a gift in my will to Essex Wildlife Trust? Well quite simply, I’m Essex born and bred, it’s my home and I care about its future. There is so much pressure on nature, the relentless scale of development (under governments of all parties) and the uncertainties of the post-pandemic world are a constant concern. I feel the Trust is fighting nature’s corner in this modern world, doing the best possible for Essex’s wonderful wildlife and engaging people of all ages. I hope you’ll keep up the good work!”

Janet

“As I have spent many very enjoyable hours getting involved and volunteering at several Essex Wildlife Trust sites over the years, I felt it would be good to give something back in return.”

“I am a member of various conservation charities but there is something special in supporting an organisation that represents and protects the local area that you have lived in all your life. This is why I have no hesitation in continuing to be a member of Essex Wildlife Trust and why I have regularly donated to special appeals, donated items for recycling or reuse and donated photos for the magazine and website. It is also the reason why leaving a legacy in my Will is so very important to me.”

Richard

“As I have spent many very enjoyable hours getting involved and volunteering at several Essex Wildlife Trust sites over the years, I felt it would be good to give something back in return. I aim to continue to contribute to further the cause of conservation and enjoy the sites protected by Essex Wildlife Trust for as long as I can.”

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