National Trust elects new President

Thursday 06 October 2022

The newly-elected President of the National Trust of Guernsey wants to put protecting the island's green spaces at the heart of his three-year term.

Mike Brown, pictured (top), was elected at the Trust's annual general meeting after nearly five years as an active member of the Trust.

"I can honestly say that I have enjoyed every second and find it immensely rewarding," said Mr Brown.

"I didn't formally seek the Presidency but I allowed myself to be put forward as I believe I have a clear vision as to how the Trust needs to evolve. I wanted to ensure that the Trust maintains its unique character and relevance whilst developing to meet the ever-changing world.

"During my Presidency, I want the Trust to maintain its current direction of travel to become more involved with the environment and to engage with government and the Planning Authority to try and ensure that as far as is practical Guernsey’s green spaces are preserved and the beauty of the island is protected and enhanced."

Pictured: Earlier this year, Express published a letter written by Mike Brown in which he argued in favour of a Requête, led by Deputy Steve Falla, which proposed new protections to make it harder to build key worker housing in a green field next to Duchess of Kent House in the grounds of the Princess Elizabeth Hospital. The letter can be read HERE.

Presidents of the Trust are in post for three years and can serve a maximum of two terms.

"I only hope I am up to the task but I am supported by a great team who will keep me on the right path," said Mr Brown.

He also wants to see the Trust working with organisations which share interests.

"I want to see closer cooperation between the Trust and all the other organisations involved in Guernsey’s heritage, culture and environment," he said.

"Thanks to the sterling work of previous Presidents, the Trust is in a very strong position and is able to withstand all foreseeable threats.

"I wish I could say the same for the island. Climate change, erosion of biodiversity and increasing population - to name but a few - all present an ever-increasing threat to the island we all love. Minimising and mitigating these threats are the challenges the Trust faces."

Pictured: The National Trust works to preserve and enhance Guernsey's heritage.

Mr Brown succeeds Tony Spruce, who served two terms as President. After a successful career in finance, Mr Brown served two terms as a non-voting member of the States' Committee for Employment & Social Security. 

The National Trust of Guernsey was founded in 1960. Its cause is "to preserve and enhance Guernsey's heritage and its natural beauty, including its historic buildings, open spaces and plant and animal life".

The Trust is the third-largest landowner in Guernsey. 

Express' sister publication, CONNECT, interviewed Jake Le Gallez, the manager and curator of the Trust's folk and costume museum at Saumarez Park. You can read the interview HERE.