WWT announces singer David Gray as its latest ambassador
David Gray, whose album White Ladder is one of the biggest sellers of the 21st century, has long supported wetlands and its wildlife, in particular the red-listed Eurasian Curlew, and is a committed supporter of the work of WWT.
Explaining why he has become an ambassador, David Gray said:
"As someone with a lifelong love of nature, I have always been drawn to the big open spaces that wetlands provide – they are incredible havens for wildlife, stunning places to look at, and magical bird-filled soundscapes, but these landscapes also have environmental superpowers too.”
He continues:
“New wetlands are phenomenal at storing and locking away carbon, improving water quality and reducing flood risk and I have seen first-hand the detailed and meticulous approach that WWT has taken when creating wetland reserves at Slimbridge, Welney and Steart Marshes.
“I am excited by the driving ambition of WWT to create 100,000 more hectares of wetlands over the coming years. Selling the wonders of vast untamed expanses of mud and water is perhaps not the easiest job, but it’s a challenge that I’m more than happy to accept."
David is also encouraging more people in the music industry to lend their support to environmental issues, pointing to the power of music to bring people together in huge numbers.
A huge supporter of the wetlands close to where he lives in Norfolk, David will join WWT’s impressive roster of wetland ambassadors including Ollie Olanipekun and Nadeem Perera of Flock Together, Lucy Hodson (aka Lucy Lapwing) and Sir Mark Rylance.
Speaking about the appointment, Sarah Fowler, WWT Chief executive added:
“David is incredibly knowledgeable, passionate and well informed about wetlands and the species that inhabit them. We’re really excited that he has decided to support WWT and our mission to put wetlands centre stage in the fight against climate change, as well as highlighting their importance for people, wildlife and the planet.”