Kent Marine Conservation
1118. Fred Booth
Fred Booth, from Kent, has been a champion of marine conservation in Kent for over 30 years.

Fred’s outstanding work has led to the discovery of a new species of non-native wireweed and was crucial in identifying the now protected areas of Kent’s Marine Conservation Zones. Passionate about Kent’s coastline, Fred was inspired to take action when he realised that the marine environment was an unknown and unrecorded frontier, and undertook a walk along the shore to record local wildlife. Following its initial success, Fred grew the walk into a large-scale survey, a precursor of the national ‘Shoresearch’ initiative, and established the ‘Kent Marine Group’. The group now has more than 100 volunteers who, inspired by Fred, have each adopted a part of the coast, monitoring and recording its local nature, usages and species.
In a personal letter to Fred, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Your work with the Wildlife Trust has led to the discovery of a new species in the Kent Coastline and has helped to identify the now protected areas of Kent’s marine Conservation Zones. You should be very proud of the progress you have made by following your passion for marine conservation.”
Fred said:
“I am surprised and delighted by such an unexpected honour following my many years recording and monitoring the seaside of Kent.”