Local conservation hero, Noel Moss, received a special award from the Mayor of Farnham at the Farnham in Bloom Community Awards. Noel is well known locally for his hands-on conservation work, his ability to bring people together and his considerable driving force among community groups and committees, all with the aim of bringing about positive change.
The Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Alan Earwaker, described Noel as “frankly, unstoppable,” and someone who will help anyone who needs it.
Speaking at the awards, the Mayor said: “Noel has inspired others to improve the environment for wildlife. He also diligently chairs the Bourne Conservation Group, which has enriched the lives of so many residents of our delightful town. He fully deserves to be recognised for his selfless achievements.”
Among other things, the Mayor credited Noel with raising the profile of conservation in Farnham, being the mastermind of recent improvements to The Bourne Green, the impetus behind the restoration of the Old Churchyard in The Bourne and part of the driving force behind Farnham’s Biodiversity Action Plan.
After a career in the army, Noel moved to Lower Bourne with his late wife in 1993. The Mayor credited his army experience with his excellent organisational skills, attention to detail and willingness to get stuck in. Noel is the current chairperson of the Bourne Conservation Group and one of the founding members.
In his speech at the award presentation, the Mayor talked about how Noel had brought together officers from numerous statutory bodies, wildlife charity representatives and volunteers to visit sites and discuss solutions and develop the Farnham Biodiversity Plan.
Noel is equally enthusiastic about carrying out practical gardening and conservation tasks. During this summer’s drought, Noel carried out watering duties at 6am to enable the plants to benefit before the day’s heat evaporated the moisture. He has also cleared streams, footpaths and overgrown woodland to improve conservation outcomes. The Mayor particularly praised his support for young people in conservation activities saying: “He has welcomed many youngsters who are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh award and fostered a lifelong interest in the environment.”
Receiving his award, Noel said: “I’m incredibly proud to receive this award because it’s a reflection of how much conservation, wildlife and biodiversity is valued in Farnham. Working with some of the other wonderful volunteers in Farnham keeps me fit and active and it’s a happy coincidence that it brings pleasure to other people and helps Farnham’s environment at the same time!”
The Farnham in Bloom Community Awards were held on 5 October at Squire’s Garden Centre in Badshot Lea. As well as the special award presented to Noel, other volunteers received awards for their contribution to Farnham in Bloom activities over the past year.
