A tribute to Gill: A shepherd of the sea and people

Earlier this year, our teams deployed 20,000 native oysters in Milford Haven estuary, on the Pembrokeshire coast, as part of the ambitious Wales-wide Natur am Byth! conservation project. This was a huge milestone in marine conservation in helping to reverse the decline in native oyster populations. It's a milestone we couldn’t have reached without the vision and tenacity of Gill Bell, who was the face and voice of the Marine Conservation Society in Wales for so many years.

Those oysters, and the many that are to follow, and all they will do for the health of Welsh seas, will be part of Gill’s vibrant and far-reaching legacy, as well as being a lasting testament to their passion and sheer determination to do all they can to protect the ocean.

In July, Gill passed away. Their resting place, nestled peacefully amongst Welsh woodland overlooking the ocean, is exactly where they wanted to be.

Gill was a committed environmentalist with strong values, and completely dedicated to safeguard our ocean, and the seas of Wales in particular. For decades, they embodied an unwavering determination to advocate for a healthy and vibrant marine environment.

Before establishing our work in Wales, Gill helped to build our beach clean programmes across the UK. They pioneered our Sea Champions volunteering programme in Wales. Their vision led to them being a driving force behind the marine component of the impressive multi-partner Natur am Byth! collaboration. They were also pivotal in establishing Wales Environment Link’s Marine team – helping to secure dedicated marine staff for Welsh seas, another legacy that lives on today.

Above anything else though, what we will remember - and miss - the most is Gill’s deeply caring and compassionate nature for people and animals. Their love of animals was reflected in their previous career as a veterinary nurse, and they were a keen gardener and nature lover. Gill built many connections throughout their career, helping all those around them – colleagues and friends. One of the many ways that Gill emanated this dedication to others was through their love of mindfulness. They pioneered and led weekly staff mindfulness sessions – sessions that continue to run to this day – and Gill’s special instruction to all of us was to be mindful and content.

Gill’s absence will be felt by all, and our thoughts are with their family and friends.