As we look ahead to 2026, I am honoured to assume the role of chairman for the club. At this point I would like to thank Neil Manthorpe for the extensive work he has done as previous chair. Neil has balanced several roles and duties on the committee, and his efforts have very much been appreciated. I am pleased to say the team has also been joined by Hester Plumridge as the club’s membership secretary. Hasan Al-Farhan continues to show passion and drive as he continues his role as the club’s secretary. A special thanks to Rob Hill and Matt Milne for their continued input on the eBulletin. It goes without saying that Mike Wallen’s continued input in being the county’s recorder and chief editor of the annual bird report is invaluable. Having Jonathan Seabrook continue his role as the club’s treasurer brings us the experience and continuity the committee is very much in need of.
It is now important that we focus on the future direction and sustainability of our club. A key part of this process is gaining a clear understanding of our membership - who our members are and what they value, and how we can continue to operate in a sustainable manner. We want to provide for our current members while also finding ways to broaden the demographic of our membership.
Our shared passion and mission
We all share a passion for birding in our county. My personal goal is for the club to accommodate the diverse interests within our birding community. This includes everything from exploring the county’s remarkable landscapes (binoculars in-hand!), recording as many birds seen or heard, taking pride in monitoring our local patches or even our gardens, standing up for our precious green spaces, and engaging in conservation projects/surveys.
Communicating all these events, activities, and projects will be fundamental to an active and inclusive club moving forward. The use of our website, YouTube channel and various social media platforms will supplement our existing communication channels of email and the eBulletin.
Looking forward: 45 years of the Bucks Bird Club
In 2026 our club will celebrate its 45th anniversary. Throughout these years, our mission has remained consistent - to engage the people of Buckinghamshire in the wonders of birdwatching while helping to conserve the county’s wild bird habitats.
We have only achieved this because of the voluntary work that has been tirelessly undertaken by our members (well done all involved!). Since the pandemic, time seems to have accelerated and finding spare moments seems to be increasingly difficult. But make no mistake, the club’s future success will be founded on its members ability to help wherever and whenever they can.
Despite being a relatively small club, we offer a wide range of activities and opportunities for our members. This includes field trips, talks from nationally and internationally recognised speakers, conservation projects, hardcopy annual reports, and regular county bulletins to name a few. The continuation of these offerings depends on the support and participation of our members, particularly volunteers. Any assistance on the committee, or even at club events/projects, will always be greatly appreciated.
Finally, as 2025 draws to a close I wish you all the best birding in Bucks and beyond! And if you’re reading this, and you’re not a member, you can join quite easily by clicking the button below