A retired educationalist who along with his wife turned a bleak swathe of Co Tyrone countryside into a lush garden and wildlife haven has won a major environmental award.
Sir Robert Salisbury – known to his friends as Bob – and his wife Rosemary will receive the International Green Apple Environment Award for their transformation of 17 acres over a decade-and-a-half.
Once barren fields and scrub that were bereft of wildlife, the area around their home near Seskinore now boasts 60-plus species of birds and at least 12 mammals, including otters and Irish hares.
The couple's endeavours are recorded in Bob's book Field of Dreams, the sequel to which is currently a work in progress.
The awards are organised by the Green Organisation, an independent, non-profit environment group that's dedicated to recognising, rewarding and promoting environmental best practice around the world.
Englishman Bob and Tyrone native Rosemary (nee D'Arcy) competed against more than 400 other nominations and will be presented with their trophy and certificate at a presentation ceremony at Westminster in spring next year.
They may even go on to compete at international level in the Green World Awards 2021 and have 100 trees planted in their name as part of the United Nations Billion Trees initiative.
Judges commented: “When Bob brought his wife back to the place she grew up, and saw her devastation at what had become of the once thriving habitat, he set about a five-year mission to return it to its original natural splendour.
"Learning as they went, they re-established a stunning woodland and wetland environment that has seen the return of more than 70 bird and mammal species."
:: You can read Bob Salisbury's autumn-winter gardening round-up on Page 36
