I have always been very interested in the environment and its conservation. During my study of Environmental Biology BSc Hons I volunteered for various organizations to help improve the local environment.  I worked for Defence Estates Conservation Office as Biodiversity and Designations officer for the whole of the Defence Estates UK and abroad. Over the past 6 years, with the Trust, I have worked with local communities around Leighton Buzzard, Luton, Houghton Regis and Central Bedfordshire to improve their quality of life through enjoyment and awareness of their surroundings.  Through my work on the Luton and Southern Bedfordshire Green Infrastructure (GI) Plan, and parish GI plans I have a good knowledge of Luton and area and understand constraints/opportunities. I have advised local groups, landowners and mineral companies on restoration and have restored sites on their behalf.

Other experience includes negotiating rights of way/permissive routes, working with volunteers, environmental focus groups, communities and conservation groups to improve local environment for biodiversity/recreation, helping groups to apply for funding and offering environmental/planning advice, producing interpretation panels/leaflets, running events and education,  facilitating workshops and informal training sessions.

For further information on the work of the Trust visit www.greensandtrust.org