It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of David Bevan.
David was a pragmatic, knowledgeable and passionate champion of the urban woodlands of North London. They would look very different if he hadn’t fought so hard to enhance and preserve their biodiversity.
He was for many years the conservation officer for London Borough of Haringey, the council where Coldfall Wood is located. He was one of the key players in the coppicing of Coldfall Wood and Queen’s Wood, a decision which greatly increased the biodiversity in both of these fragments of ancient woodland. Everyone who enjoys our ancient woodlands owes him a debt of gratitude.
The article below outlines a talk that David did for the London Natural History Society during covid lockdown. It helps to explain the unique character of Coldfall and other ancient woodlands, and demonstrates the breadth of David’s experience.
Below is a link to the full talk.
Lastly, below is a link to the ‘muchloved’ site with a gallery of lovely photos of David and information about donating to chosen charities in his honour.
Friends of Coldfall Wood & Muswell Hill Playing Fields 