FRIENDS family, and colleagues gathered along Wells Common to commemorate Martin Cottrell, a man who dedicated 30 years of service to the Malvern Hills and Commons.
In May 2025, the trust lost their valued friend and colleague, Martin, shortly after completing his 30th year in service. Martin and his team were responsible for maintaining the care of the Hills and Commons.
A bench has been installed near Wells Common, overlooking the Commons where Martin worked. A second memorial bench has been installed in the Trust’s Memorial Woodland alongside a new apple tree.
David Core, trustee at the Malvern Hills Trust, said: “I saw Martin many times over his 30 years with the Trust. He was always cheerful and happy to talk about his work, an evident source of great satisfaction to him.
“The bench is a fine memorial to Martin and all his work, providing a site from which many people, including myself, will be able to enjoy the views and take a moment for quiet reflection on the natural beauty of the Malverns, and for those of us who knew him to remember him.
“This dedication will ensure that Martin’s contribution to the work of the Trust will be here for all to see, remember, and be grateful for.”
In 2025, the Malvern Hills Trust recognised long service from many of its staff. Sadly, Martin was not able to receive his award as one of the longest-serving members.
At the memorial event, which was attended by current and retired colleagues of Martin, John Michael the Chair of Trustees, was able to present Martin’s certificate to his wife Sue, given as a lasting mark of the Trust’s appreciation to Martin’s dedication over so many years.
Sue Cottrell said: “I would just like to thank the trust and everyone else who was involved in making the day so special for us as a family.
“It has been a devastatingly tough time for us, but I will always remember this day and the lovely things that were said about Martin. He was truly the greatest and we miss him enormously.
“I would like to thank the trustees who have closely engaged with us over the last few months.”
