Grayling Society Appoints New Chair: Dr Marnie Lovejoy to Lead Conservation Drive

Dr Lovejoy is currently deputy director of conservation at the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), where her remit covers strategy, governance, compliance and conservation policy. A qualified lawyer with a doctorate in criminal law and a background in higher education leadership, she also brings personal passion to the role as a keen fly-fisher.

Conservation and membership growth will be the twin priorities of her tenure. That means expanding the Society’s catch return scheme to sharpen environmental monitoring, delivering habitat improvement work, and attracting younger and female anglers to a membership that currently costs £28 per year — with free entry for under-18s and reduced rates for the over-70s.

Who is Dr Marnie Lovejoy?

Dr Lovejoy holds a doctorate in criminal law and previously served as associate head of Portsmouth Law School before moving into national membership organisation management. She is currently deputy director of conservation at BASC, covering strategy, governance, compliance and conservation policy. She is also a keen fly-fisher.

What will the Grayling Society focus on under new leadership?

The Society plans practical habitat improvement work alongside expansion of its catch return scheme for better environmental data. Dr Lovejoy has noted that “grayling react quickly to problems such as pollution, warming water and habitat damage” — underlining their value as an indicator species for river health.

How is the Grayling Society growing its membership?

Annual membership costs £28, with free membership for under-18s and reduced rates for those aged 70 and over. Dr Lovejoy is particularly focused on attracting younger anglers and women. “Anyone who fishes for grayling should join up and benefit,” she said.