Together, we make a difference - Countryside Manager

As part of our Together, we make a difference campaign we celebrate Stewart, our Countryside Manager, who is preparing to retire after nearly 37 years with us.

Throughout his career, he has turned his passion for the natural environment into meaningful action, helping biodiversity flourish, enhancing green spaces, building strong partnerships and inspiring residents and visitors to connect with nature across the borough.

Stewart has worked alongside the council's Countryside team, volunteers and partners to deliver a wide range of projects across the borough. His achievements have included co-authoring the borough’s Biodiversity Action Plan, restoring key pathways at Horton Country Park and Epsom Common local nature reserves, creating new paths and bridges in the Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve, developing the Round the Borough Hike & Bike Route and working with partners to support the creation of new wetlands and reintroduce water voles at the Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve.

Reflecting on his time with the council, Stewart said:

"It's been a great place to work. I began my career in countryside management in 1986, helping to establish and volunteering with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers South Devon Group. For me, countryside management has been more than just a job – it's been a passion.

"Over the years, I've been fortunate to contribute to projects that have made a real difference in Epsom and Ewell. From achieving a ‘Favourable Condition Assessment’ for the Epsom Common Site of Special Scientific Interest to securing our 20th consecutive Green Flag Award for Epsom Common Local Nature Reserve, each recognition reflects the dedication and commitment of everyone involved.

"Working alongside volunteers and partners, we've helped habitats thrive, improved access to nature and delivered lasting benefits for both wildlife and visitors. I'm particularly proud of the successful reintroduction of summer cattle grazing on Epsom Common which has helped maintain valuable wood pasture habitat, increase biodiversity, and support populations of wildflowers, butterflies, birds, reptiles and other wildlife.”

As retirement approaches, Stewart says it is the people he will miss most:

"I'll miss working with the team, volunteers, partners and colleagues who have been such an important part of my career. Their support, friendship and shared commitment have made my time here incredibly enjoyable and rewarding. I'll always be proud of what we've achieved together.

"Improving biodiversity doesn't happen by accident – it's the result of long-term commitment, partnership working and careful habitat management. I'd like to thank everyone I’ve worked with over the years who have helped the team and myself deliver the council’s goals around improving biodiversity in our borough."

For more information about Epsom & Ewell’s Biodiversity Action Plan - Biodiversity