Reflecting on his career, McLaughlin said: “I’ve traveled in the London underground, people do that daily, all their working lives, and I think why would anyone want to do that?
“My favourite thing is being out here in the woods.”
Deer management was an “integral” part of his role.
“If you have an unmanaged deer population, they pretty much destroy it, grazing on young vegetation meaning trees can’t grow, which has a knock-on effect to wildlife.”
Martin said McLaughlin’s “wealth of knowledge” had been invaluable in “helping us care for these special places”.
“His work on deer management has played a vital role in supporting the natural regeneration of native tree species, while his collaboration with local conservation groups has helped deliver positive outcomes for wildlife across the area.
“His contribution leaves a lasting legacy and we thank him for his remarkable service and wish him a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.”
Despite retiring, McLaughlin said he would remain a familiar face in the woods.
“I won’t miss it, because I’m still going to be here. I will miss my colleagues and the friends I have made though.”
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