The chief executive of Essex Wildlife Trust has been awarded an MBE for services to wildlife and the environment.

East Anglian Daily Times: John Hall, chief executive of Essex Wildlife Trust, with Sir David AttenboroughJohn Hall, chief executive of Essex Wildlife Trust, with Sir David Attenborough (Image: Archant)

John Hall joined the trust 28 years ago as a conservation manager in a team of four staff, becoming chief executive the following year – a role he is retiring from later this year.

Now the trust has 120 staff and more than 2,000 volunteers, overseeing 8,200 acres of land.

Mr Hall, 63, said: “It is a fabulous recognition for me and the work of Essex Wildlife Trust.

“I have been privileged to lead the trust for the last 28 years and I didn’t expect something like this.

“We have achieved some great things over the years, and this is great credit to all the staff and volunteers who are a great bunch of determined, intelligent people.”

Mr Hall, who lives in Abberton, said one of his proudest achievements was bringing the trust’s work out of its reserves and into communities – which also encourages wildlife to re-colonise the landscape.

“The few people I’ve been able to tell are pleased for me, which I am grateful for, and I am pleased for the organisation,” Mr Hall added.

“As a new chief comes in later this year it is a particularly nice time for me personally to get this acknowledgement.”