Tony was an exceptional leader and a true inspiration, who did a huge amount for the Trust and the environment regionally and nationally.

Awarded an OBE for his services to sustainable development in 2000, he was committed to addressing climate change. His passion led him to become a government representative to the first Earth summit in Rio in 1992 as well as the UN Commission for Sustainable Development in 1993 – 1998. He was also involved in the founding of Natural England, helped to set up the foundations of greening local government and much, much more.

Many staff across the Trust have fond memories of working with Tony, Dr Jo Smith, CEO said, “Tony was such an amazing person to have as a chair when I started as a new CEO; he was fun to work with, but more importantly he was also extraordinarily generous in sharing his time, his skills, his experience and his vast network. I learnt so much from him. He made such a difference and was such an advocate of the environment; he was a real driver of positive change at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and will be so sadly missed by so many people.”

Ed Green, who was CEO at the Trust when Tony was appointed Chair, said, “I first met Tony at a reception organised by The Wildlife Trusts at the Houses of Parliament. It was the start of a four-year relationship in which Tony’s patient, considered and insightful leadership guided the Trust, while always finding time in our regular meetings to discuss politics, football and life in general. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and myself personally owe Tony a great deal, and he will be much missed by his many friends and colleagues.”

Tony was not only a huge influence at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, but also at the Peak District National Park where he was appointed by the Secretary of State and remained for ten years, between April 1998 and March 2008. In July 2002 he became Chair of the authority, a position he held for five years. 

Jim Dixon was CEO at Peak District National Park Authority at the time and added: “Tony was a passionate advocate for the environment throughout his career and before it became fashionable. Trained as a planner, he worked for most of his professional life in local government. His work on greening local government contributed to the Nottingham Declaration and the Rio Earth summit. Tony was awarded the OBE for his work at Rio. In early retirement he quickly filled a busy life in Chair, Trustee and advisory roles for Green Alliance, the Countryside Agency and Natural England, the Forestry Commission, the Peak District National Park and the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. He had immensely high standards, was an able communicator and a shrewd judge of people. He was highly principled, acting and campaigning for the climate and opposing all hunting and killing of animals. As a Chair at the Peak District National Park Authority he had the confidence of officers and the diverse membership of the Board. Tony was a true environmental champion.”

Staff and volunteers and all former colleagues at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, offer their sincere condolences to Tony's family and friends. He will be greatly missed.