My father devoted his life to the conservation and preservation of the English countryside. Through his dedication, hard work and passion he left an enduring heritage. He was always optimistic and when challenged with a negative view (often mine) would gently remind me “it might not be so bad, you know”. I want to pass on this optimism for the future of our world to our two sons, Ivor and Warwick, who will inherit custodianship of the charity.