Head keeper of the New Forest Andy Page joined Forestry England in 1987

Longstanding New Forest head keeper Andy Page has retired from Forestry England after a career spanning five decades.

Describing Andy as an “inspiring and respected” team leader, New Forest Deputy Surveyor Craig Harrison said he would be greatly missed.

Paying tribute to Andy’s contributions, Mr Harrison told the Verderers’ Court that Andy was born and bred in the area and developed a passion for nature from an early age.

“He worked on the Exbury Estate for 13 years before joining the Forestry Commission in 1987,” he continued. “He learned about the keeper role quickly and the range of tasks that were involved - engagement with the public, including campers, and dealing with scallywags alongside pest management and conservation work.”

Andy was later promoted to leading keeper and then head keeper for the New Forest North walk. By 2010 Andy had become head keeper for the whole of the New Forest and was fully immersed in the area’s day to day workings and its associated politics.

As part of this role he produced and oversaw the implementation of the New Forest Deer Management Plan, which balances the need for population management with the historic and cultural importance of fallow deer.

Mr Harrison said: “He has conscientiously and effectively managed the core team's needs, such as firearm safety, deer larders and advice on wildlife aspects of forestry and heathland operations.”

Andy has also built a lasting legacy through his work in ornithology and studying the raptors of the New Forest. Working in partnership with ornithological organisations, he has conducted surverys, ringed birds and installed cameras in order to gain a better understanding of raptors.

Describing his knowledge of New Forest raptors as second to none, Mr Harrison said Andy was “greatly respected” both within Forestry England and by outside partners.

Mr Harrison continued: “Andy's other key skill is communicating his passion and knowledge so effectively to a wide range of people, educating and inspiring the public about the forest’s special qualities, working with partners outside the forest and internationally, presenting at biodiversity conferences, making numerous appearances on television with esteemed presenters, and last but not least, meeting The Queen at the New Forest show, while fully suited up on a sweltering day.

“Andy will be missed by the team and by me personally, and we wish him a long and happy retirement, I feel sure he will continue to play a part here and wish him many more years climbing trees with binoculars in hand.”