A MAN with a deep rooted love of the Malvern Hills has launched a fundraiser for the countryside’s trust to mark his 90th birthday.
Bristolian Brian Iles, who turned 90 on July 23, has so far raised £400 for the Malvern Hills Trust showing his appreciation of the picturesque countryside which he frequented as a youngster.
It was back in 1951, as a young adult aged 17, that Brian moved to Whittington in Worcester to work with the Air Ministry and instantly fell in love with the historic and inspiring Malvern Hills.
The rolling landscape has gone on to live in his heart all these years despite returning back to Bristol after 18 months.
In the lead up to his birthday, Brian wrote a song about the memorable times he and his family have had visiting the hills. The song was arranged and performed by Helen James and others and can be viewed on YouTube.
Brian said: “I lived in the Air Ministry Hostel. It was the beginning of a love affair with the Malvern Hills.
“My family and I have enjoyed them ever since and now at long last we have the opportunity to say a proper thank you.
“I hope after seeing the ‘Song of the Malverns’ video, you will be inspired as I was by the beauty of the Malverns to donate to The Malvern Hills Trust, to help preserve and maintain this national treasure.”
Brian recently visited the Malvern Hills with his family to celebrate his 90th birthday.
Despite not making it to the top of the hills, Brian enjoyed a walk to the cafe with his family and shared some leaflets to promote his fundraiser among the locals.
In total, he aims to raise £500 for the trust.
Visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/nicola-iles-1720208839620 for more information.
