Introduction

Hi I am Howard Sutcliffe, I grew up in Blackpool, my family ran sea front shops. We always spent days out in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the Lake District National Park. I was always interested in farming as my sister married a farmer, so I spent many happy summer holidays in Tewkesbury Gloucestershire on the farm.

Job description

My job is Lead Officer for the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB, managing the main committees- Joint Committee and AONB Partnership, various working groups and the main political and financial contacts. I also manage the Denbighshire Ranger Service and Properties (70+) across the county.

My day at work

Making sure that everything runs smoothly, picking up work that falls between the cracks. Going to meetings, looking for new avenues of funding whilst maintaining current funding. Getting out into the field and exploring new places within the 390 sq Km of the AONB and Denbighshire.

Is there a downside?

Dealing with and disappointing people whilst trying to protect the landscape, especially from unsympathetic schemes.

What I love

Coming to work every day over the Horseshoe Pass and driving through different weathers and seasonal colours. Walking in the countryside and especially by the sea in Rhyl and Prestatyn, after all I am sand-grown!!!

My favourite site

It has to be Dinas Brân – what a jewel in the landscape!

My favourite view

Hillfort on Moel Hiraddug which was granted to the public under the Open Access in the year 2000.