A STALWART Malvern Hills ranger who spent thirty years maintaining the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has retired.
Simon Davies who spent three decades caring for the Hills and Commons has announced his retirement this week on Thursday (July 17).
The ranger, who joined Malvern Hills Trust in May 1995, worked in the Field Team and kept paths maintained, grass mowed, fencing repaired and much more.
He even built the last bonfire on the Worcestershire beacon in 2012 to celebrate the Queen’s jubilee.
Simon said: “I haven’t had any days that I haven’t wanted to come to work. It can’t be bad after 30 years, can it?
“The message I would like to say to local people is to keep enjoying the hills. They’re here, they’re free.
“Get out and about and walk, see what’s going on. Take some time, to look at the views.”
Malvern Hills Trust has recently awarded Simon a ‘long service award’ to mark his notable contributions to the local area.
The trust’s CEO, Deborah Fox said: “I can speak confidently on behalf of the team and say we’ve been extremely fortunate to have Simon with us.
“The knowledge of the land and experience Simon has brought has been extremely valuable. 30 years of service cannot be underestimated.
“We’re extremely grateful for Simon’s contribution to caring for the Malvern Hills and Commons and we wish him and his family the best.”
Malvern Hills Trust is hosting a series of guided walks and drop-in events on the Malvern Hills Bill, a new piece of legislation which will reshape how the area is managed, over the summer months.
