The Association’s annual awards celebrate the commitment, knowledge and inspiration of individuals who have gone above and beyond for arboriculture, shaping not only its present but also its future. The awards were presented at Conference in September to Helen Read MBE, Harry Hudson and Callum Throw.
Harry Hudson receiving his award from Keely Dowson of TreeLife, Tony Kirkham and Neil Davies.
Callum Throw receiving his award from Samuel Hargreaves of Nicholson’s, Tony Kirkham and Neil Davies.
The Arboricultural Association Award
Some people come into an industry and leave their mark. Others, like this year’s winner, Helen Read MBE, transform it entirely. For 36 years as Conservation Officer at Burnham Beeches, Helen has been a leading light in the world of ancient and veteran trees, inspiring, informing and uniting professionals from multiple disciplines and the public alike. Taking a pivotal role in the Ancient Tree Forum from its inception, she is valued in many ways, including as a key member of the ATF’s Technical Advisory Panel.
Helen’s early influence began with the landmark Burnham Beeches conferences in 1991 and 1993, which produced the foundational publications Pollard & Veteran Tree Management I and II. She has continued to make extensive contributions to the field, including numerous peer-reviewed articles and the important text Veteran Trees: A Guide to Good Management (2000). This globally recognised reference has been translated into multiple languages.
Helen has always been keen to share her knowledge and learn from others, within and outside national borders. She was awarded a Winston Churchill travelling fellowship to study and document pan-European pollarding and cultural practices. From this, connections and exchanges have continued to be built between the UK and, for example, Spain and France. Her impact on veteran tree management is further evidenced by her work on both VETree and VETcert, both European projects.
Helen’s extensive contributions, rare humility and generous, supportive qualities have served to change the way we manage and value trees. As she retires from her role at Burnham Beeches this year, it is our pleasure to recognise her persistent and humble passion.
Helen said, ‘I’m thrilled to be given the Arboricultural Association award. To be following in the footsteps of so many great people who have received this award makes me feel very honoured. I usually consider myself to be a more of a general ecologist, so while trees, especially old and pollarded trees, have filled much of my life and work, I never expected to be honoured in this way. Thank you to those that nominated me but also (to pinch some words from Ted Green) to all those that have accompanied me and encouraged me along this journey.’
Student of the Year
Harry Hudson recently completed the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Arboriculture and Forestry at Merrist Wood College.
Harry threw himself into his studies with energy, focus and a drive to succeed that are truly remarkable. Despite starting the course a little later than his peers, he consistently went above and beyond to catch up and excel in his studies. His infectious positive attitude, enthusiasm and ever-present smile made him a valued member of the college community. Described as an exceptional student, he also gave his time to help out at college events, sharing his experience with prospective students.
Young Arboricultural Professional of the Year
Callum Throw’s passion and enthusiasm for trees, combined with a drive to push the industry forward, is truly admirable.
His efforts to modernise arboricultural practice through effective use of technology, including AI, virtual reality and drones, have been nothing short of inspiring. His work with the company Arb Innovators has generated huge interest and debate across the industry, and has established him as an authority in these areas.
Callum’s contribution goes far beyond technological innovation. His engagement with the younger generation is helping to show school leavers that a career in arboriculture is accessible, exciting and meaningful. Eager to attend events, deliver talks and support organisations, including the Arboricultural Association, he is actively helping to address the succession challenge that our industry faces.
With huge vision and seemingly endless amounts of energy, he is a deserving recipient of this award.
This article was taken from Issue 211 Winter 2025 of the ARB Magazine, which is available to view free to members by simply logging in to the website and viewing your profile area.