This talk was given to a meeting of the BNHS on the 8th of March 1980.

This talk is autobiographical and, while John reflects on his early interest in wild flowers leading to writing floras of both Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, he covers his early life at school and at Chapel. There he met people who ignited an interest in botany. He maintained this interest despite leaving school at 14 and training to be an engineer. In the talk he describes his first forays into the Bedfordshire countryside and Flitwick Moor, and his introduction to Wardown Museum where he later worked to curate plants and other collections.

John lived through both world wars and studied to receive a degree and then a doctorate on the Luton hat industry.

After the Second World War he became involved in, and provided a crucial role in, the post-war efforts to recognise Bedfordshire`s best areas for wildlife, now protected as sites of Special Scientific Interest. John describes the formation of the BNHS in 1946 and the society's early activities which involved fighting to protect areas of wildlife by giving evidence at numerous public enquiries. He also tells of the formation of the Wildlife Trust of Bedfordshire and Huntingdonshire and its effect on the BNHS at the time.

A fascinating, powerful and humorous talk given in John`s distinctive voice is well worth listening to; he made a truly positive and lasting impact on our county.

The talk, which was not illustrated, runs for approximately 90 minutes, including some questions from the audience.

Use the controls below to play the talk:



A full account of John's botanical life can be found in John G. Dony (1899-1991) A Botanical Appreciation by Chris Boon (PDF - The Bedfordshire Naturalist no. 45 1991).