Gift in Will

Thanks to a generous gift in their Will from two long-term SWT members, we’re helping to support the next generation of wildlife conservationists.

Their gift has been instrumental in our Reserves Trainee programme, which equips trainees with essential skills to help us manage and protect Surrey's habitats.

Find out more about the impact of their gift in the short video below.

In 2023 we received a generous donation from a local resident and Surrey Wildlife Trust member, this donation enabled a purchase of an acre of additional land at our Vann Lake reserve. This purchase of land connects important habitat which we can ensure will be managed for the benefit of nature long into the future. 

As someone who cares passionately about Surrey's wild places, this donor wanted to leave a 'Living Legacy' that they could see come to fruition in their lifetime, but that would also endure long into the future.  

This Living Legacy will also fund three places on our trainee programme. Creating a legacy of future leaders in nature conservation that will make a real difference in the lives of the people who participate, giving opportunities to springboard their careers. 

“The thing that impresses me most is that this individual shares our belief that in the face of a climate and nature emergency, optimism and action are the only sensible response.  If we take a long-term view and each do what we can, there's no reason why we can't create and maintain more places like Vann Lake, for the benefit of the generations to come.” James Herd, Director of Reserves Management at SWT.  

Donations of this scale make a huge impact in keeping the Trust’s future secure and in enabling us to set our ambitions higher. But every gift — large or small — is hugely appreciated and forms part of a powerful collective. 

The family of former Surrey Wildlife Trust member and Bramley resident Mary Rae made a donation in her name. Mary died in 2022, having been a Surrey Wildlife Trust member for 55 years.

Mary was an active supporter of nature conservation, allowing her large, previously formal garden to run almost wild for the benefit of Badgers, Foxes and deer. In spring she joined Toad patrols, helping amphibians to cross roads safely to their breeding ponds. Mary travelled widely and was a keen nature photographer. This kind donation will enable us to continue to support her beloved wildlife. 

All our reserves are long-term projects, requiring sustained investment and management over many years – and a gift in your Will is the perfect way to secure their future.