The Hertfordshire wildlife conservation community was shocked to learn of the death of Richard Ball on 28 April, aged 74. He had been unwell for some time and was taken into intensive care on 12 April.

Richard was a highly respected and well known Hertfordshire figure. He was a long term supporter of the Hertfordshire Natural History Society. In November 2011 he was honoured with the HNHS 1875 Award for his outstanding contribution to natural history in Hertfordshire.
The photograph (right) shows him receiving his award at the AGM from (the then) HNHS Chairman, Trevor James.

One of Richard's major achievement was his tireless voluntary work for the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust, serving on Council from 1992 and as Chairman from 1996-2009. 

Richard first became more widely known on the Hertfordshire natural history scene in the early 1990s, after his retirement from a senior management role in British Rail. He was initially involved with local wildlife groups around his home town of Stevenage, but rapidly got involved more broadly with especially the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. He was appointed Chairman in 1995 a critical time in the wildlife conservation movement in Hertfordshire.

Richard led the Trust for the next 14 years, finally standing down as Chairman (but remaining a Vice-President) in October 2009. During that time, membership grew strongly and the Trust expanded its activities, gaining both financial support and recognition from a wide range of bodies. Much of this success, alongside the direction of Judy Adams during this same period, was down to Richard?s leadership. Hertfordshire therefore has a legacy of some outstanding nature reserves to its credit, such as Kings Meads, Waterford Heath, Amwell Quarry, Rye Meads, and perhaps especially the eponymous Balls Wood, which was finally secured by the Trust in 2009. The photograph shows Richard at the opening ceremony after its acquisition in 2009.

Richard also served as Trustee for the RSPB and UK Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts, and campaigned for wildlife causes.

He spoke about his commitment to conservation at the HNHS Autumn Conference in October 2012.

The photographs show Richard with the other speakers at the conference (right) and campaigning for marine nature reserves outside parliament (below).

One priority for Richard was working to encourage young people, believing that inspiring people is a cornerstone of wildlife conservation.

We would like to express our condolences to Richard's widow, Maureen and his family.

Richard's funeral will be on Wednesday 15 May at 2.15 at St Mary's Church, Walkern. Family flowers only by request. Donations in memory of Richard for Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust may be sent care of Austen's Funeral Dervice, 21 High Street, Stevenage, SG1 3BG