About Us

 

We all come to a point in our lives when it is important to look backwards as well as forwards.

When Gary Dyson, at the age of 63, looked back over his life he felt as though he had a debt to pay.

After a career in music spanning decades, Gary had embarked on a bold new career as a high end picture framer, work which meant making extensive use of commercially extracted hardwoods.

We all take from the natural world every day, some more than others. As someone with a deep and lifelong affinity for the natural world, Gary felt the need to “balance the books” more acutely than most.

It began with planting trees, but it soon became clear that on it’s own that wouldn't be enough. With the recognition that a more holistic approach was needed, the Broadleaf Foundation was born - a charitable organisation committed to buying and protecting Britain’s vulnerable forests, guaranteeing access to all and expanding them wherever possible.

It was important work, but it couldn’t be done alone. To do the most good, a team of skilled and committed individuals was needed. The first was Connie Starling, a lifelong friend and second generation forester and horticulturist. Connie’s insights into the health of forests and fostering biodiversity would be invaluable for the task ahead.

Next was the skilled businessman Patrick Jacqueline, whose commitment to rewilding had seen him plant over 1,000 trees already! As treasurer of the charity, Patrick’s financial acumen would see every penny put to the best possible use.

Lastly Will Sirr, a personal friend and dedicated environmentalist bought some youthful energy to the team. Will’s family connections in the world of fundraising have been and indispensable resource in helping the Broadleaf Foundation achieve its goals.

With a strong board, the foundation was ready to make its first purchase. With a significant investment from founder Gary Dyson, Broadleaf was able to purchase a portion of Poet’s wood, with the promise of much more to come.