Dedicated service of Assynt Field Club chairman Andy Summers recognised as he steps down after 15 years

Members of Assynt Field Club have paid tribute to their long-standing chairman as he steps down from the role.

Andy Summers has served as club chairman for the past 15 years alongside his work as a senior countryside ranger with High Life Highland’s Countryside Ranger Service.

At the club’s 38th AGM in Stoer Village Hall earlier this month, he handed over the reins to new chairperson Charlie Leeson with his best wishes.

Ms Leeson spoke of Mr Summers’ many years of unselfish, enthusiastic and committed service, not only to Assynt Field Club but to the wider cause of protecting and educating all ages about Assynt’s wildlife and countryside.

She then presented him with a number of gifts, which had been purchased with donations received from members after it was announced late last year that he was to step down.

So many donations were received that the field club committee had had to ask Andy for a “wish list” of gifts.

Among the items presented were a fence post driver, a UV torch to help identify some lichens, fungi and moths that fluoresce under UV light, an adapter to attach a smartphone to a microscope, and a gift voucher for Waterstones.

Founded in 1986, Assynt Field Club is an unincorporated association whose aims are to encourage the study and enjoyment of the wildlife, landscape and geology of Assynt.

Members record and document a large number of wildlife sightings each year. A programme of indoor meetings runs from October to April and a programme of outdoor meetings from May to September each year.

For more information visit www.assyntwildlife.org.uk

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