Latest from the Conservators
Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators
Media Statement
Long-serving Deputy Clerk & Ranger, Paula Graystone, Retires
The Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC) announce that Paula Graystone, Deputy Clerk & Ranger, retired from the charity at the end of December 2024 after 23 years of dedicated service.
Paula has been an integral part of the WPCC team, well known to staff, volunteers, and the many visitors to the Commons. Her steadfast commitment and unwavering support have been a cornerstone of the charity’s work. From January, she will begin a new chapter of her life in West Sussex.
Throughout her career, Paula has worn many hats. Her responsibilities included managing the charity’s finances, overseeing Conservators’ elections and appointments, and leading the organisation’s HR functions. Additionally, Paula was a key member of the Duty Officer Rota Team, providing 24/7 cover and supporting the Chief Executive as "second in command.”
Paula’s empathetic nature, unfailing cheerfulness, and remarkable resilience have been central to her work here on the Commons. Whether resolving operational challenges or providing compassionate assistance to individuals in distress, she has consistently gone above and beyond. Her ability to approach every situation with empathy and professionalism has earned her widespread respect and affection.
Chief Executive, Colin Cooper, commented, "Paula's contribution to the Commons over the past two decades has been extraordinary. Her expertise, leadership, and kindness have left an indelible mark on our organisation. We will all miss her immensely, but we wish her every happiness in her well-deserved retirement.”
As Paula prepares to bid farewell to the Commons, the Conservators, staff and volunteers alike extend their heartfelt thanks for her many years of commitment to the Commons and wish Paula all the best in her retirement.
Staff Restructure
Following the retirement of Paula Graystone, Deputy Clerk & Ranger, the Chief Executive has taken the opportunity to restructure the Ranger’s Office team to better align with the charity’s evolving needs.
With immediate effect, Philip Warner, the Management Accountant, will continue in his part-time role but will take on additional hours and responsibilities, assuming the position of Chief Financial Officer. To support the day-to-day financial operations, a new part-time Finance Officer will join the team at the end of January.
Angela Evans-Hill, who has served as Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive and Communications Officer, has been promoted to Deputy Chief Executive as from 1 January 2025. In this new role, Angela will serve as “second in command”, supporting the Chief Executive with particular emphasis on governance and strategy, as well as overseeing the administrative work of the Ranger’s Office. With over 21 years of experience at the charity and involvement in its operations, Angela’s knowledge and experience of the inner workings of the charity made her a natural choice for the role.
Several vacancies remain within the maintenance team following Sarah Murton’s promotion to Conservation Ranger earlier this year and other staff departures. These positions will be advertised in early 2025.
Chief Executive Colin Cooper commented, “This restructure will result in a more streamlined and focused team and has also resulted in an overall reduction in staff costs. I am excited to move the charity forward with this new team in place.”
New Environment and Sustainability Committee Launched by the Conservators
The Conservators have announced the formation of a dedicated Environment and Sustainability Committee to enhance the charity’s focus on environmental stewardship. The newly established Committee will oversee adherence to environmental statutory duties and responsibilities and ensure effective delivery of key environmental strategies, including the Land Management Plan. The Committee held its inaugural meeting under the leadership of Oliver Bennett MBE, a Conservator appointed by DEFRA. A copy of the Committee’s Terms of Reference can be found here: ESC – Terms of Reference
Reporting into this Committee are two staff-led forums that will drive specific initiatives. Firstly, the long-established Wildlife and Conservation Forum, now chaired by Conservation and Engagement Officer Peter Haldane, will concentrate on monitoring the wildlife across the Commons, bringing together officers and volunteers in its work. Secondly, the newly created Environment and Sustainability Forum, led by Deputy Chief Executive Angela Evans-Hill, will focus on embedding sustainability into WPCC’s operations. A key initial project for the Group will be conducting a comprehensive carbon footprint audit to inform future sustainability initiatives.
Wimbledon and Putney Commons Celebrate Success in Big Give Christmas Challenge
Wimbledon and Putney Commons are delighted to announce the successful completion of their fundraising target for the 2024 Big Give Christmas Challenge. The funds raised will support the Queensmere Restoration Project, with the goal met within an impressive 24 hours. The final total raised was £11,800.
Chairman of the Conservators, Mauro Mattiuzzo, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated so generously, and to The Reed Foundation for championing our cause and providing match funding.”
Restoration work at Queensmere began in early December, starting with tree thinning around the pond’s edge. This was followed by draining the pond and safely relocating fish to another site. In early 2025, the project will progress with the removal of silt, which will be repurposed to create a natural bank and wetland area.
This vital project underscores the Conservators’ commitment to enhancing and preserving the Commons’ unique environment for future generations.
ENDS
NOTES for Editors - Wimbledon and Putney Commons is a charity managed by the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC). It was established under the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Act of 1871. The Commons comprise some 1,140 acres across Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath and Putney Lower Common.
Contact: Colin Cooper, Chief Executive
Tel: 020 8788 7655, E-mail: rangersoffice@wpcc.org.uk website: www.wpcc.org.uk
Issued: January 2025