Dr Angus Lunn, a naturalist whose dedicated actions were crucial to securing protected status for the Border Mires (bogs which support a host of nationally important wildlife) will receive his MBE, awarded for his services to education and peatland conservation, later this year.

Alongside a small number of similar enthusiasts, Angus was one of the original members of the Northumberland and Durham Naturalists’ Trust which began life in 1962 until it became Northumberland Wildlife Trust in 1971. He is now one of its vice-presidents and was one of its Trustees and Chair of its Conservation Committee for 35 years.

A lecturer in natural sciences at Newcastle University until his retirement, Angus’ knowledge of upland vegetation is prodigious.  He produced the first vegetation map of the whole of Northumberland based substantially on his own field work and, through this; he identified and mapped the Sphagnum bogs in the west of the County. 

Angus spear-headed a campaign through Northumberland Wildlife Trust to ensure, not only that the bogs’ ecological significance was recognised, but that they were protected into the future.  Through his foresight, persuasive skills and sheer determination, many of the sites are now specially protected under national or international legislation.  Without Angus, many of these precious habitats would have been lost.  He has also played an important role in protecting native woodland and other rare habitats in Northumberland.

Angus has worked tirelessly on engaging people with the natural world. As head of Adult Education at Newcastle University he instigated a new qualification: the Certificate in Nature Conservation. 

Mike Pratt, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Chief Executive says: “Angus is a legendary conservationist so the news he has been recognised with an MBE is a fantastic reflection on his work, not just with Northumberland Wildlife Trust, but with many other partners and not just in promoting conservation at the landscape scale but also educating people and organisations about the need for nature recovery. The fact that he considered the need to ensure nature’s recovery since the start of our Trust in 1971 and before, is truly remarkable.

“Angus’ work on the Border Mire peatlands especially has been transformational and is more important than ever given our climate change crisis. He has a unique mix of well-honed field naturalist skills, and a deep understanding of how landscapes and ecosystems work. 

“We are so very proud to be associated with Angus - he thoroughly deserves this award. It is an honour to continue to work alongside him as he continued to make a difference for nature, wildlife and people.”