I am David Riddle - a Rural Surveyor and Chartered Environmentalist by profession and a committed environmentalist at heart. I have worked in conservation land management for more than 30 years - for the Peak District National Park and for 25 years with the National Trust.
I am passionate about wildlife and the environment and am personally committed to building positive relationships for the sustainable management of land.
My experience includes direct management of upland and lowland estates, farmland, historic houses, parks and gardens, woodland, nature reserves, coast and commons, and has involved the care of many sites of national and international importance for landscape, nature and cultural heritage. I have also worked at a senior director level developing policy and strategy for sustainable land management and leading specialist land use consultancy teams across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
I have a long track record of using positive negotiation and diplomacy to build strong relationships between landowner, occupiers, neighbours and communities to achieve conservation objectives.
I am a keen birder and amateur naturalist and sail a Cornish Shrimper on the South coast. I am an enthusiastic cook and my interest in healthy eating and local, seasonal food fits well with the potential for farmers to connect more strongly with people through what they produce.
If you want more information about me see my profile on LinkedIn.