A head and shoulders photo of Anthony Burton CBE taken with grass and trees in the background. Heather is smiling at the camera

Anthony Burton, Trustee

Anthony is a Senior Partner at solicitors Simons Muirhead and Burton. He was Felix Dennis’s private lawyer and is a founding Trustee of the Heart of England Forest, appointed in 2003. Anthony’s other roles have included Chair of the Royal Court Theatre, Chair of the Death Penalty Project and a Council Member of the organisation Justice, an all-party law reform and human rights organisation working to strengthen the justice system.

“I am committed to helping to deliver Felix’s dream of planting a 30,000-acre contiguous broadleaf forest. Trees are of fundamental importance to the environment and the human condition, and the peaceful, majestic and mystical Forest has a uniting and bonding quality.”
Anthony Burton in a blue suit standing in front of panelled wooden wall.

Q&A with Anthony

When did you become a trustee?

2003 - I am a founding trustee.

 

Why did you choose to give your time and get involved with the charity?

I was Felix Dennis’ private lawyer for many years and so was honoured to be invited to become a trustee of what was then the Forest of Dennis. This enabled me to become part of the Heart of England Forest charity and continue his ambition to plant a 30,000-acre native broadleaf forest. 

 

What expertise do you bring to the trustee role?

I bring experience of chairing other organisations and projects and an understanding of the history of the Forest.

 

What aspect of the charity’s work interests you the most?

I am most interested in the tree planting work of the charity and the opportunity to witness the major growth of the Forest since its conception. 

 

How do you think the Heart of England Forest is making the most difference?

I think the charity is making a significant difference in many areas, including tree planting and improving biodiversity. 

 

What are the challenges facing the charity over the next 12 months?

I believe the biggest challenges the charity will face will be acquiring new land in its desired areas and the worsening effects of climate change. 

 

What 3 words would you use to describe the work of the Forest?

Exciting, challenging, and essential. 

 

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