Christopher Cadbury medal presented
Thursday 25th November 2010
Champion of nature conservation on Isle of Man receives The Wildlife Trusts’ prestigious award
Thomas William Cain CBE, a founder member of the Manx Wildlife Trust, is the recipient of The Wildlife Trusts’ Christopher Cadbury medal for services to nature conservation for 2010.
After playing his part in the founding of the Manx Wildlife Trust in 1973, William became its chairman and held this role for 36 years, until his retirement in 2010. He saw the Trust’s land holdings grow from just two reserves, including Cooildarry – which he and his wife donated - to 20 reserves, covering 280 acres. Manx Wildlife Trust is now the leading conservation charity on the Isle of Man.
William also played an important part in the introduction of the 1990 Manx Wildlife Act, which established the principles of protecting many listed species of animals and plants. It also set the legal framework for the designation of Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) on the island. William has been a leading light in many critical developments that have benefited wildlife in the Irish Sea.
Duncan Bridges, director of the Manx Wildlife Trust, said: “William has been an integral part of the Manx Wildlife Trust since its foundation, and we cannot praise highly enough his dedication, knowledge and generosity.
“From donating land, and a huge amount of time, to being an outstanding and constant advocate for nature conservation throughout the Isle of Man and the Irish Sea region*, William’s contribution to the Island’s natural environment, and to the Trust, is immeasurable. We are delighted that this contribution has been recognised by The Wildlife Trusts through the Christopher Cadbury medal and offer William our warmest congratulations.”
William is still an active volunteer for the Manx Wildlife Trust, involved in reserve management as well as acting as warden at visitor centres and helping on Trust stands at exhibitions. He was presented with the Christopher Cadbury medal by Professor Aubrey Manning OBE, president of The Wildlife Trusts, at their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 24 November.
Upon receiving the medal, William said: “I am delighted to receive the Christopher Cadbury medal on behalf of the Manx Wildlife Trust, the army of volunteers, and the staff who have created the Trust over the past 37 years. I thank them all for their support.”
*The Irish Sea region extends from the Mull of Kintyre in the north to St George’s Channel in the south and includes the Firth of Clyde.
Story by RSWT