Sir Martin Wood (1927-2021)
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our founder and patron Sir Martin Wood (1927-2021).
Sir Martin’s contribution – not just to Earth Trust, but to the Oxfordshire community as a whole – has been transformational.
Martin and Audrey Wood
Sir Martin and Lady Audrey Wood co-founded Earth Trust in 1982 (previously known as Northmoor Trust for Countryside Conservation) with the land acquisition of Little Wittenham Wood, after years of appreciating the challenges faced by nature and the environment.
Sir Martin and Lady Audrey recognised that, as well as being important wildlife habitat, this was a valuable opportunity to provide access to the countryside for local communities.
From our earliest pioneering beginnings, Earth Trust has grown to be an advocate and demonstration of people connecting with the natural world.
Chief Executive of Earth Trust, Jayne Manley, said:
“Martin’s love of the environment, his appreciation of the benefits of being close to nature and his desire to make it better for everyone have shaped the Earth Trust into what it is today. Just as he pioneered in science, he wanted to support innovation in thought and action. Alongside this he understood that Earth Trust was a “start-up” charity, bringing with it similar challenges to those faced by small businesses. We are proud to have been founded by such an influential and inspirational figure, and I am personally privileged to have had the benefit of lively discussions on ideas around connecting people to nature. He was much loved by staff, volunteers and visitors and will be missed enormously by all.”
Our thoughts and deepest sympathy lie with Martin’s widow, Audrey, and their children Robin, Jonny, Sarah and their families.
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