Paul Olver, who is a longstanding member of the Trust and was a member of the Trust’s Board from 2009 -2017, has been awarded the Foulerton Award by the Geologists Association (GA). Since 1858, the GA has actively promoted the study of geology to all who are interested regardless of the level of their knowledge. This award is one of their most prestigious and is made in recognition of work of merit connected with the Association.
Paul has been a member of the GA since 1980. At first in Farnham and later in Herefordshire, he has encouraged new members to take up an interest in geology. He has given courses of lectures in both counties as the WEA and is a splendid teacher. Many of us have enjoyed his field trips both in UK and abroad. As a member of the GA council, he actively encouraged outreach by leading a programme of events around the UK and not just in London.
Such awards are usually presented at the annual general meeting in May each year. Due to Covid restrictions, the award was presented to Paul on 12th June 2021 in his garden by Vanessa Banks, the President of the Geologists’ Association, This was a lovely sunny day and attendees from the Geologists’ Association, Earth Heritage Trust, Woolhope Naturalists’ Field Club and Teme Valley Geological Society were able to enjoy a picnic lunch in Paul’s back garden after the presentation.