We are sad to announce the passing of Michael Dower CBE, our Hon. Secretary.
Michael had a long and distinguished career focused on supporting the rural environment. His roles included Director-General of the Countryside Commission and Professor of European Rural Development at the University of Gloucestershire.
His passion and concern for the environment continued after his retirement and he was already in his mid eighties when he led the formation of the Beaminster Area Eco Group. He gave direction to our activities, actively led our tree planting campaign, and wrote & produced our regular Newsletter. In spite of ill health he was never content to sit back and he was the driving force behind the development of Beaminster Town Council’s Environmental Resilience Plan. He took a leading role in the creation of the Dorset Climate Action Network.
Michael worked tirelessly to educate and enthuse the younger members of our community on environmental issues. He took responsibility for the management of the Beaminster School wood and for a period was an active Governor of the school.
Although sad at his loss, we celebrate the life of a remarkable and inspirational man.
Our thoughts are with Nan, his wife of 60 years, and his family.
