A trees management officer for Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park has been applauded for his work preserving the capital’s most precious trees.
David Humphries, who has worked on the sites for 35 years, won the London Tree Officers Association Individual Commitment Award, at the Forestry Commission’s London Tree and Woodland Awards.
Judges from the London Tree Officers Association hailed his “consistent dedication and commitment” to protecting London’s trees.
Mr Humphries looks after 30,000 trees across the three sites, which are managed by the City of London Corporation.
He leads a team of five City Corporation arborists who undertake inspections, tree health care, safety works and veteran tree management.
The London Tree and Woodland Awards celebrate the work of individuals, communities and professionals who protect, improve and expand the capital’s tree and woodland cover.
Each year, the awards showcase the work taking place all over the city to protect and increase London’s urban forest.
The 2020 London Tree and Woodland Awards were awarded virtually this year.
READ MORE: Watch these spaces inside beech trees on Hampstead Heath
David Humphries said: “I am extremely proud to receive this award.
“I feel privileged to be a guardian of this fantastic urban woodland, helping to conserve its biodiversity and see the enjoyment these trees give to the public.
“I greatly enjoy sharing my observations with visitors and colleagues from across the industry, from London and further afield.”
Anne Fairweather, chair of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee, commented: “I’m proud that David has won this award. It is testament to his hard work and dedication over the past 35 years, and he should be very satisfied with his achievement.
“This year our green spaces have been more important than ever before, making the work of David and his team even more vital.
“These sites are have been a lifeline during the coronavirus pandemic, helping people get exercise and fresh air and benefitting both mental and physical health.
“I thank David, and the rest of our staff and volunteers for the excellent job they do in maintaining these open spaces to such a high standard, keeping them accessible for all and giving people the opportunity to explore the natural world.”
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