Simon Toomer has been appointed as the new Director of Westonbirt - the National Arboretum in Gloucestershire.
In this exciting and challenging role, Simon will be responsible for the management and future development of one of the finest tree collections in the world.
Simon knows Westonbirt well. For the past 10 years he has worked at this magnificent Forestry Commission arboretum, most recently as its Curator.
He originally trained in environmental biology and forestry, and previously worked as a practical forester, woodlands advisor and arboriculturalist. His particular interests lie in conservation and management of native woodland and the use of ornamental trees in garden landscapes.
Commenting on his appointment, he said:
"I'm delighted to be leading such a great team, and helping to shape the future of this stunning arboretum. We are entering an exciting new phase in Westonbirt's long history, and have the chance to make it a real centre of excellence - strengthening the science and learning elements of our work while making the arboretum a truly awe-inspiring place to visit."
Westonbirt Arboretum is open all year round. It is three miles south west of Tetbury on the A433 (Tetbury to Bath Road), and10 miles north east of Junction 18 of the M4, and south-east of junction 13 of the M5.
For further information, please contact Gail McKenzie, Communications Officer, Westonbirt - The National Arboretum. Tel 01666 881207, email: gail.mckenzie@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
NOTES TO EDITOR
1. Image of Simon Toomer, the new Director of Westonbirt Arboretum attached. Credit: Forestry Commission.
2. Westonbirt - The National Arboretum is managed by the Forestry Commission and renowned worldwide for its tree and shrub collection. It contains nearly 16,000 specimens, including almost half of the woody plants known to grow in the world's temperate climate zone. It covers 600 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Its importance is recognised by English Heritage's Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historical Interest as a Grade 1 registered Landscape. Visitor numbers are 350,000 a year, with a membership of over 21,000.
3. Westonbirt Arboretum was established in the 1850s by wealthy landowner Robert Holford, and later developed by his son George Holford.
Much of Westonbirt's renowned autumn colour is credited to Sir George's plantings of Japanese maples between 1875 and 1900, many of which are still alive today. Unlike many arboreta, Westonbirt is laid out according to aesthetic appeal rather than scientific or geographical criteria, and the Holfords' legacy is open for all to enjoy - a beautiful, relaxing and unique day out among some of the tallest, oldest and rarest trees and shrubs in Britain.
4. Westonbirt is home to the National Japanese Maple (Acer) Collection, with over 300 different types in the collection. The Forestry Commission opened Westonbirt Arboretum to the public in 1961, and in 1966 a new Acer Glade was established, alongside the original one planted by Robert and George Holford in 1875. Today, Westonbirt is in the process of creating the world's best collection of maples.
5. The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive, woodlands.
Further information can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk