David Scott and Rachel Rowlands on their way to the top of Yr Wyddfa as part of the 3 Peaks Challenge to raise money for World Land Trust (WLT). Credit: David Scott and Rachel Rowlands
The support of our major donors makes an extraordinary difference to our work at World Land Trust (WLT). This month, we’re celebrating David Scott and Rachel Rowlands, whose commitment over the past two decades has taken many forms – from tackling the 3 Peaks Challenge and running the world’s largest half-marathon dressed as Elvis, to donating proceeds from their business, Kew Brewery. Their creativity, dedication and enthusiasm have played a huge part in helping protect some of the most threatened habitats and wildlife in the world.
Can you introduce yourselves and describe your support for WLT?
“We’re Dave and Rachel, long-time and passionate supporters of the excellent WLT. I think we first started supporting WLT back in 2004 and have done so in the form of both conventional charity giving, and some more wild and whacky fundraising attempts in the past.”
One of their whackier fundraising attempts. David and Rachel dress up as Elvis to fundraise for WLT during the Great North Run from Newcastle to South Shields. Credit: David Scott and Rachel Rowlands
What sparked your passion for environmental conservation?
“It’s difficult to pinpoint one particular moment. We both always cared about wildlife and nature and enjoyed being outdoors. I’d say that it was through the steady build-up of awareness that all was not well with the planet as this became ever more obvious in the late 1990s. And the desire to be involved in something worthwhile, something that really mattered.”
Why were you drawn to WLT in particular, and what has made you stay with us over the years?
“Two things particularly attracted us to WLT. One was the ‘gift acre’ scheme, which seemed a brilliant way to give a meaningful present to someone. The other was the role and endorsement of Sir David Attenborough, someone we both hugely admire. His statement that “The money that is given to the World Land Trust, in my estimation, has more effect on the wild world than almost anything I can think of” really resonated and feels just as true today as it ever has.
We both also like the fact that WLT seems very focused, very ‘no nonsense’ in its approach, and simply gets on with things. There doesn’t seem to be the frippery and waste that one feels could be the case with some of the better-known environmental charities. It helped too that John and Viv Burton were such passionate campaigners and vibrant characters.”
John and Viv Burton, WLT’s co-founders, photographed at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2010. Credit: WLT
Of all WLT’s projects, is there one you’ve especially enjoyed supporting?
“I don’t think there is – it would be so hard to pick one project over another. I think the most enjoyable thing about supporting WLT is simply seeing the progress made – real, meaningful progress. And hearing about the next project and opportunity to benefit the planet.”
In addition to fundraising activities, David and Rachel supported WLT with a donation of 5p for every pint sold from Kew Brewery. Credit: David Scott and Rachel Rowlands
“Every WLT project has real, tangible and beneficial outcomes. I can think of no better charity to support.” David Scott and Rachel Rowlands
What would you like other potential supporters to know about WLT? What advice or encouragement might you give them?
“I think I’d just refer to a number of the things we mentioned above. It was firstly the Sir David Attenborough quote and then it’s also the confidence knowing that every WLT project has real, tangible and beneficial outcomes, and that there is little wastage by the charity. I can think of no better charity to support.”
Conservation can sometimes feel overwhelming – what gives you hope for the future?
“Yes, it can be difficult to remain positive when it comes to conservation. We both have our doubts about the willingness of humanity to take seriously the environment that we all rely on for our clean air, water, and food. And I think we do both fear that despite the efforts of good people, things are still unfortunately going backwards in a lot of ways. But the work of WLT especially, and of other environmental charities and campaigners, gives me hope. And the obvious results and benefits from that work – seeing woodlands and habitats regenerate, and steadily filling with wildlife, including endangered species – are hugely rewarding.”
David and Rachel at the top of Yr Wyddfa during the 3 Peaks Challenge. Credit: David Scott and Rachel Rowlands
We are profoundly grateful for David and Rachel’s long-standing support. Please get in touch with our Fundraising, Corporate Partnerships, and Major Giving teams to find out how you can also get involved.
Thank you.
