A GARDENER who ‘clicks’ with campus wildlife at the University of Warwick is marking a milestone
Paul Thompson, the friendly gardener with a green thumb and a camera, has spent the past 35 years making the university wildlife-friendly and a place of well-being.
The 53-year-old, when asked why he’s spent over three decades at the University of Warwick, answered simply: “I love my job. I just love working outdoors. Autumn and winter are my favourite, the colours are the best and I love working in the snow.”
Referring to himself as a ‘learner’, Paul’s amateur wildlife photography has caught the attention of BBC’s Countryfile, as well as TV personalities including Chris Packham.
Paul has seen the university change more times than he’s changed his gardening gloves down the years.
With a campus of over 290 hectares – that’s around 400 football pitches – Paul has his work cut out keeping it all in order.
Some of Paul’s best pictures will be used as part of the university’s ‘Autumn Watch’ campaign, starting next week.
The campaign encourages staff, students and other members of the Warwick to keep their eyes peeled for wildlife on campus this Autumn.
Paul’s offered some wildlife photography advice.
“Get your camera, or your mobile phone with a camera, keep it with you. You can take photos of butterflies, birds, and foxes when it’s snowing and cold, carry your camera with you so you’re always ready.”
“I’ve been waiting to see a kingfisher again for five years, but when you see something it’s worth it.”
