I would like to join Steve both in welcoming Ian as the new County Recorder and echo his comments about the fantastic support that Judith has given me since I got involved in bird surveys and submitting records.
I'm sure Ian will do a great job as County Recorder, but first he'll have to put on his website hat and change lots of names and addresses in the Who's Who section
OK GM birders, I know you've all been waiting with anticipation to find out who the new County Recorder will be. Following Judith Smith's announcement of her intention to stand down, effective 27th June, the two Assistant County Recorders and the BTO Regional Representative for Manchester region decided to make the process of appointing a new County Recorder as open and democratic as possible.
The post was therefore advertised on Manchester Birding on 15th June (the website, not the forum!). It was disappointing that there was only one applicant, as we wanted to hold a democratic election, inviting the participation of all those GM birders who had submitted records over the past five years, for the county report.
So, I am delighted to announce that Ian McKerchar has been appointed as the new Greater Manchester County Bird Recorder with effect from today. From the discussions we have held over the past few weeks, one thing is sure, Ian is totally committed to the role and so I trust you will all join me in offering him your support over the coming months and years. We both wish to see more GM birders becoming actively involved in recording and taking action for the conservation of the county's birds. Over the next few weeks Ian will be putting forward our ideas for increasing the participation of GM birders in county matters and we look forward to hearing your ideas about any issues relating to birds and birding in GM.
Finally, I would like to offer my personal thanks to Judith Smith for her support during the five years that I have worked with her as Assistant County Recorder (Database). She leaves behind an impressive legacy. Without her hard work there would be no Peregrines nesting in Manchester City Centre, or Rochdale and Bolton town centres. She has made a significant contribution to the recovery of the Barn Owl population in the county and leaves a database of over half a million records which is used by the BTO, Natural England, and the RSPB to promote the conservation of birds in GM. However, after 19 years at the helm, she deserves a well earned rest. We wish her all the best in her retirement.
Steve
P.S. Happy birthday Ian
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The Watergrove Skyline (January 2010) - before desecration.