Three Salisbury residents in Queen's Birthday Honours list

The efforts of people who make outstanding contributions to their communities and British society are regularly recognised by the bi-annual honours announcement.

The latest Queen’s Birthday Honours list sees some 1,129 people being acknowledged, with another 360 in other categories such as the diplomatic service and overseas list.

Coming amid the enduring Covid-19 pandemic, it features a number of scientists and volunteers who supported the response to the virus outbreak.

The Queen and Prince William visited Porton Down in October of last year.

The Salisbury residents are:

• Allan MacDonald Bennett. Head of Biosafety, Air and Water Microbiology Group, Public Health England. For services to Microbiology in the Covid-19 Response. (Salisbury, Wiltshire)
• Dr Christopher Martin Timperley. Fellow, Chemistry and Operational Readiness Group, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. For services to UK Defence and Security. (Salisbury, Wiltshire)
• Colin Elford. Wildlife Ranger, Forestry England. For services to Forestry. (Salisbury, Wiltshire)

All three are to be made Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

'Honoured'

Colin Elford

Colin Elford, 65, works to maintain and improve habitats across the area, from Lyndhurst, to Grovely Woods and Hare Warren.

He said he was "honoured" when he got the call, and said he was glad that his parents are still alive to share the honour with him.

Colin has "accumulated an intimate knowledge of the woodlands in his care" over more than 25 years.

His knowledge "of how natural processes operate" has helped him "maintain and enhance a very precious resource for future generations to enjoy".

Working in some challenging conditions, he has controlled damaging pest species, reducing deer browsing and bark stripping by non-native grey squirrels.

'Exemplar work'

His "exemplar work" has seen woodland managers from across the south of England visit these woods to see his success and learn from his unique expertise which he shares with great enthusiasm.

As part of his honour, the Cabinet Office said: "He is a tremendous advocate for active management of woodlands, something that is under-appreciated, extolling how they can be vibrant with nature yet also provide solace and enjoyment for the public and sustainable timber supplies for our economy.

"He has embraced this in going beyond the normal expectations of his role, openly sharing his knowledge and has written books about his life’s experiences.

"He will do much of this commendable work in his own time, above and beyond his normal duties.

"Over time and with unwavering dedication he has created an intricate network of improved and connected habitats through his woodlands with the help of his volunteers and forestry staff."

Mr Bennett and Dr Timperley declined to be contacted.

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