Tom was born on the edge of the Ashdown Forest, his childhood spent exploring the woodlands, ghyll streams, bogs, and heaths, looking for deer, snakes, and birds of prey. The freedom to roam this special landscape led to his choice of career as an ecologist and environmental educator, and a lifelong  desire to help protect wildlife. With a degree in Environmental Management and 20 years’ experience in the field, through roles at Gurukula Botanical Sanctuary in southern India, Field Studies Council, Sussex Wildlife Trust, and Commonwork Trust, Tom is an all-round naturalist who has wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to share with travellers. 

Tom still lives on the Forest and now works as an independent ecologist and wildlife guide across Sussex, Surrey and Kent, including Knepp Wildland, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew Wakehurst and Bore Place Organic Farm. He also works with audio producer Eka Morgan to produce the Ashdown Forest Podcast, which celebrates all that makes up this remarkable landscape.