Tribute to eco-hero
A special tribute in honour of an eco-hero whose achievements ranked him alongside Charles Darwin, is to be held tomorrow (Wednesday 23 September).
Tony Bradshaw was Professor of Botany at the University of Liverpool and was internationally acclaimed for his research and environmental work. In July 2008, he became Liverpool's first ever Citizen of Honour for his contribution to urban ecology and restoration. He sadly died in August 2008 at the age of 82.
To mark his achievements, 1,000 snowdrop bulbs will be planted in St James' Gardens - an area Professor Bradshaw himself transformed when he set up a dedicated Friends group for the garden who undertook new planting and created a wildlife haven.
Tim Smit, founder of the world famous Eden Project, has been heavily influenced by the ecologist, and will lead the planting ceremony at 10am on Wednesday. He will be joined by Tony's three daughters and a group of around 20 school children
Liverpool City Council's executive member for the environment, Councillor Berni Turner, said: "Tony was an outstanding individual whose environmental work continues to influence ecologists across the world.
"Although he wasn't from Liverpool originally, after he moved here he made the city his home and was always willing to get involved with projects to improve the ecological value of the city. His knowledge was invaluable and we consulted him on many issues including the regeneration of Sefton Park.
"I'm delighted that tomorrow's floral tribute is taking place in such a fitting location and it's wonderful he's being honoured in this way, especially as it's Liverpool's Year of the Environment."
During his lifetime Professor Bradshaw was involved with many environmental organisations, including the first Groundwork Trust, set up in St Helens in 1981. The model was so successful there are now more than 50 Groundwork Trusts in the UK, focused on communities where environmental dereliction goes hand-in-hand with social and economic deprivation.
In 2006, the Environment Agency named the top 100 green campaigners of all time. Tony came in at 88, sandwiched between Charles Darwin and the Dalai Lama.
The event has been organised by the Friends of St. James' Gardens and Liverpool City Council.
This evening (Tuesday 22), Tim Smit will be taking part in the University of Liverpool's Public Lecture Series at the Philharmonic Hall. The event is the inaugural Bradshaw Trust lecture in memory of Mr Bradshaw.
