Introducing our new Reserve Manager

We are delighted to introduce you to our new Reserve Manager, Robert Murray, who officially joins us on the 16th of November. We know the appointment of a new reserve manager has been very anticipated by all at Foxglove Covert, and we are looking forward to welcoming him to the team. Combining his career in the Army with hands-on reserve management experience, Rob has wealth of knowledge that we are confident will help Foxglove Covert continue to thrive and live up to it's full potential.

We would like to say a massive thank you to staff members Phoebe and Joanne for stepping up to oversee the reserve during the interim period and to our trustees, Nicola, Tony, John, Jo, Lesley, and Rebecca for providing extra support and guidance while we were without a reserve manager. Above all, a huge thank you goes to our incredible volunteers, whose unwavering passion and dedication continue to make all the difference at Foxglove Covert.

Robert Murray - About Me

I am delighted to introduce myself as the new Reserve Manager at Foxglove Covert Local Nature Reserve. It is a privilege to join such a special site, one that has clearly built a strong reputation for wildlife conservation, community engagement and providing opportunities for people to connect with nature.

My life and career have been shaped by a deep passion for wildlife. From an early age, working on hill farms in the remote Herefordshire countryside, through almost 30 years in the Army (with a side hustle as a Mountain Leader and studying natural science courses through the Open University), and finally through an apprenticeship in Countryside Management with Natural England, the natural world has been a constant thread throughout my life.

At a time when the decline of habitats and species is more evident than ever, I feel a strong personal commitment to help protect, restore and enhance our natural environment, not only for wildlife but for the benefit and wellbeing of people too, myself included!

Since leaving the Army in 2021, I have worked as a Reserve Manager for Natural England, within a small team managing four remarkable National Nature Reserves. These include the Wyre Forest, England's largest woodland National Nature Reserve; Moccas Park, an ancient deer park renowned for its nationally important collection of veteran and ancient trees; Gillian’s Wood, an ambitious wood-pasture restoration site; and The Flits, a secluded landscape of ancient wet meadows and carr woodland.

Working across these very different reserves has given me broad practical experience in habitat management, species conservation, visitor engagement, volunteer management, partnership working, and the challenges of balancing conservation priorities, financial constraints and public access. What I have enjoyed most is working alongside committed colleagues, volunteers, local communities, contractors and other stakeholders to ensure these special places continue to thrive for both wildlife and people.

One of the things I enjoy most about working on nature reserves is that every day offers an opportunity to learn. This year, I have been involved in several scientific projects, including studies of wood ants, Pearl-bordered Fritillary eggs and larvae, and adders. It is fascinating to see just how interconnected the natural world is. I am certain that this daily learning and discovery will continue at Foxglove Covert.

I am very much looking forward to getting started, learning more about the reserve's habitats, wildlife and history, and getting to know all the staff, volunteers, trustees, partners and visitors who make it such a special place.

I look forward to meeting you all over the coming weeks.

Rob Murray