The Grayling Society appoints Dr Marnie Lovejoy as new chair

The Grayling Society has appointed Dr Marnie Lovejoy as its incoming chair, succeeding Rob Harley later this year, marking a renewed focus on conservation and membership growth.

Ms Lovejoy is a lawyer by training with a doctorate in criminal law and previously served as associate head of Portsmouth Law School before moving into a senior leadership role within a national membership organisation. She is currently deputy director of conservation at BASC, where her work spans strategy, governance, compliance and conservation policy. A keen fly-fisher, she brings both professional expertise and personal passion to the role.

The Society, which has championed grayling conservation for nearly 50 years, says future priorities will include practical habitat work and expanding its catch return scheme to improve environmental monitoring. Ms Lovejoy points to the species’ value as an indicator of river health. “Grayling react quickly to problems such as pollution, warming water and habitat damage,” she said.

Broadening the Society’s appeal will also be central to her tenure, with membership among younger and female anglers a particular target. The annual subscription stands at £28, with free membership for the under-18s and reduced rates for those aged over 70.

“Anyone who fishes for grayling should join up and benefit,” Ms Lovejoy added.

Photo credit: Marnie Lovejoy