It is, with great sadness, that we have to say farewell to Stephen Butcher, who died earlier this month.

Stephen was a motivator, a mentor and a someone who reminded CPRENorthYorkshire why we do what we do.  CPRENorthYorkshire will feel his loss deeply.

Stephen joined us in in 2009.  He brought expertise and passion to our group, advising us on issues from farming to wildlife to National Parks to planning.  Stephen was a gentleman with incredible humour and charm.  

There really are no words to describe this great campaigner for our countryside.  

From the Chair:

I will always smile at the memory of Stephen, he became a friend as well as mentor and motivator.  He inspired me and reminded me daily that our work had to continue with passion, dedication and determination.  There are not enough people like Stephen Butcher in this world.  When Stephen farmed in the Yorkshire dales, he would mark out the nests of lapwings and curlews in the fields with golf flags so that the fields were cut around the nests,  protecting the birds and their offspring.  No one could ever match Stephen Butchers passion and commitment.  

Stephen, we will remember you and I promise that we'll try to continue your desire to ensure that our  countryside is valued, enhanced and  protected!  You're totally forgiven for being late for every meeting and I'm sorry our biscuits and cakes were not up to scratch!  We're going to try to bring some of your charm and humour into countryside campaigning!

Thank you for every single thing you did for CPRENorthYorkshire.

Jules Marley, May 2018