Tribute to Board member Stephen Tarling
PUBLISHED ON: 1 NOVEMBER 2023The New Forest National Park Authority is saddened to learn of the death of one of its Board members after a short illness.
Stephen Tarling joined the Authority as a member in 2020 and served on the planning committee. He was also one of the Authority’s first New Forest Ambassadors, a scheme set up in lockdown, which saw hundreds of local people helping to care for the Forest through activities such as litter picking. Stephen was an advocate for the New Forest Marque local produce scheme, showing his support through his holiday let.
Stephen, of Tiptoe, said his love of the Forest began with camping by Ober Water as a scout. A scientist and trainer, his background saw him measure pollutants in local streams from the Forest to the sea.
NFNPA Chair David Bence said: ‘Stephen’s passion for the Forest was very clear and he took a great interest in all aspects of the Authority’s work and many of its partner organisations. He was a dedicated Board member and also a great support to our staff and members. With the Forest very much in his heart he will be much missed and our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.’
Main photo: Alex Kerslake