our team
- Dr. Sam Bridgewater
- Kim Strawbridge
- Paul Swain
- Ed Lagdon
- Kate Ponting
Dr. Sam Bridgewater
Head of Wildlife and ConservationSam Bridgewater joined Clinton Devon Estates in November 2012. His role is to ensure that the support of wildlife and ecosystem services is embedded within the decision making of the Estate.
He previously spent 15 years as an academic researcher at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the Natural History Museum, London.
“I am delighted to be part of Clinton Devon Estates and to help lead the Conservation Trust. The Pebblebed Heaths represent the largest expanse of lowland heathland in Devon and sit at the top of the hierarchy of European conservation sites.
The challenge we have is how to reconcile the needs of wildlife with public recreation and access and how to fund these activities in the long-term. What excites me about the work is securing a sustainable model of conservation management, one that is based on sound science and which enjoys full public support.”
Kim Strawbridge
Site managerKim joined Clinton Devon Estate’s conservation team in 2017 from a senior role with the Eastern Moors Partnership, a collaboration between the RSPB and the National Trust within the Peak District National Park. Kim leads on the site management of the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths.
“I’m originally from this part of the world so I’m very pleased to be returning to my roots to work with a highly professional team to manage this extraordinarily beautiful and ecologically important site that is so loved and enjoyed by a wide range of people.”
Paul Swain
RangerPaul comes from a farming background and has been working with the Trust to conserve the Pebblebed Heaths for over a decade, putting his longstanding machinery and animal husbandry skills to good use. Initially assistant warden, Paul leads the practical day-to-day management of the Commons.
“What interests me most about the job is trying to recreate the management practices of the Commoners of the past using modern techniques. Keeping the heaths in good health is a challenge, but it is worthwhile when you see the results. An important part of the work is communicating what we do to the general public, and ensuring that we balance the needs of wildlife with those of society.”
Ed Lagdon
RangerEd studied Countryside Management at Aberystwyth University and has specialised in heathland management since 2004. After a period as a contractor he joined the Trust’s team full time in 2011.
In addition to undertaking practical management and education work he specialises in wildlife surveys, including nightjars and Dartford warblers.
“I have always had a keen interest in wildlife and love working outside. Working on the heaths within the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is hugely rewarding because you can see the positive impact our small team has on the environment.”
Kate Ponting
Countryside Learning OfficerKate joined Clinton Devon Estates in 2014 after 14 years as a teacher. Her role is to broaden understanding of how and why the countryside is managed and to ensure that the views of local communities are reflected in the Estate’s strategy and approach to business.
For the Conservation Trust Kate leads on events, volunteering and education, linking with local communities, schools, colleges and universities and promoting lifelong learning.
“I love talking to people of all ages about how the countryside works, in providing food, homes, energy and employment as well as space for nature and recreation.”
These cattle have been slow reared on a natural diet of grass and heathland plants. Red Devon beef fed in this way has excellent texture, flavour and tenderness. It also contains healthy Omega-3 fatty acids which are an essential component of a healthy diet. Red Devons naturally lay down intra-muscular fat which produces wonderful marbled beef, keeping the meat moist while cooking.