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Newsletter
In Memoriam Graham Knight (06/03/10)
It was with great sadness that we heard of the untimely death of Graham Knight in September 2009. Graham had first started taking a serious interest in the Derwent Valley as part of a project for a course that he was undertaking. His report identified a wide range of sites of interest that he thought ought to be brought to the attention of a wider audience. His immediate job as a broadcaster meant that it was a while before he developed his ideas and he was an early member of a trust formed to promote the image of the valley. He also wanted to encourage visitors to spend more time there, boosting the local economy but not to add to the traffic and congestion by encouraging sustainable forms of transport.
He used his local knowledge and contacts and, with the other initial members, persuaded Derbyshire County Council and all the district councils in the valley along with other bodies to support the idea. The Derwent Valley Trust was formed in 1995 and Graham was the first Chair. He championed the designation of the valley as The National Heritage Corridor recognising its value for the archaeological, historical, industrial, geological and wildlife characteristics as well as its attraction for sporting and recreational activities. He inspired the original idea of a braided way along the valley to enable walkers, cyclists and others to enjoy these facilities in a sustainable way.
He stood down as chair when he got involved in the early days of the internet as his new company involved in the nascent technology of broadband took up more of his time. Graham remained a keen supporter when the Trust developed the Derwent Valley Heritage Way footpath. He stayed on the Board of the Trust and, when his business interests changed again such that he had more time locally he started to get involved more. Unfortunately at about that time his health started to deteriorate but he tried to keep in touch and was always keen to hear what was going on. He last appeared at a meeting in the summer of 2009 when he seemed to be making progress so it was a shock to hear that he had passed away.
It was Graham’s original ideas and enthusiasm that helped to bring more attention to the valley and probably played a part in triggering the development of the World Heritage Site. He will be remembered for his inspiration and friendly demeanour as well as his deep knowledge of the area. His loss will be felt by the Trust and our thoughts go to his widow Cherry.
Latest Annual Report Online (06/03/10)
The Trust's year ending March 31st 2009 financial report has been added to the annual reports section.
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