Losing a member of a long-standing team always leaves a gap which even a talented replacement cannot entirely fill. When that person is already the best in their field, it is a double blow.

Yesterday, David Hirst our wonderful press officer and friend announced his departure for Natural England as their N E Region Communications Senior Specialist.

For about 20 years David has worked with the media for the RSPB and since the LDOP’s inception in 2001 has also worked tirelessly for us to produce press releases, arrange interviews and generate publicity. This has ensured that many 1000’s of people have come to know and love ospreys and wildlife. Our ½ millionth visitor event last year (which he also organised) is proof of his effectiveness.

He is that rara avis that manages to combine a journalistic talent for unearthing and sharing good wildlife stories, combined with a sensitivity towards fragile conservation issues that has inspired us with implicit trust. His personal love of birds always comes first and that he is a keen and knowledgeable bird watcher is obvious.

On the end of the phone he has always been particularly patient, even at deadlines when for the third time of asking the pictures and stories he needs to work with are not forthcoming!

His sense of humour... well, who can forget press releases entitled ‘It’s Eggs-actly what we hoped for’, or ‘Breaking news – Lake District osprey eggs hatch’ .........without groaning. His handling of the ‘osprey soap opera’ has given even those with no previous interest in wildlife a handle to enjoy them by.

So, if you got to hear about Bassenthwaite ospreys through TV radio or magazine article it was probably David who fixed it so you did. Thank you David. We shall miss you very much.

Good luck and God Bless your work in the new job.

The Staff and Volunteers of Ospreywatch