Whilst our thoughts are with Bill’s family and friends, we would like to take the opportunity to reflect on the enormous contribution Bill made to nature conservation and to highlight the support he provided to our work here in Notts.

Bill was a birder long before he was a broadcaster and having come to prominence as a comedian, he later used his fame and skill as a broadcaster as a platform to share his passion for nature.

Through early programmes such as Birding with Bill Oddie and then the ground-breaking Springwatch – Bill helped bring nature into the homes of millions. His wonder for and love of nature shone through, making him the ideal face for programmes focussed on encouraging people to connect with nature on their doorstep. A Vice President of The Wildlife Trusts since 2000, Bill also supported many other nature charities and was generous with his time. In 1998 he visited Nottingham to open our new HQ in the city and later became a judge for our Green Guardians Awards – returning in 2012 to present the awards at The Albert Hall.

Bill was also passionate advocate for the positive effect that being in nature could have on people’s mental health. In 2013 he visited our Idle Valley Nature Reserve near Retford to meet people involved in our ‘Eco Minds’ mental health project – work continued today by the team from Muddy Fork.

Speaking after hearing the news of Bill passing Erin McDaid, the Trust’s Communications, Campaigns and Advocacy Lead said: “Bill’s contribution to nature conservation is immeasurable – his passion for nature, honesty and humour provided the perfect blend, resulting in millions of viewers across the generations to switch on to a new style of nature programmes. Bill also helped encourage countless armchair viewers to get out into nature and to take action to protect it.