Recognition for Observer columnist at Westminster
Naturalist and Observer columnist Keith Graham has been honoured in the Houses of Parliament.
Stirling MP Stephen Kerr last month tabled an early day motion at Westminster praising Keith for his contribution to the paper over the last five decades.
Keith first wildlife column appeared in the Observer 44 years ago on October 24, 1975 and it focused on red deer.
He had been asked to write for the paper by the Observer’s then editor, Jim Crumley, a nature lover himself who later gave up journalism to write books about the Scottish hills and wildlife.
Jim and Keith and first discussed the idea of column during a Stirling County Cricket Club tour of Yorkshire. Keith, a former captain of the Williamfield club, at that time still opened the batting for the County XI. Jim, an all-rounder at the club, quickly agreed to the column. Since then he has been writing a weekly column for the paper – and never missed a deadline.
Keith, of Port of Menteith, worked in the media and agricultural industry before moving to the area to pioneer a new countryside ranger service.
On Saturday, at the Lake of Menteith Hotel, Mr Kerr presented Keith with a copy of the early day motion which reads: `This house recognises the commitment and hard work of naturalist Keith Graham by having written a weekly column in the Stirling Observer newspaper for 45 years; notes the invaluable contribution to raising awareness of the natural world to the readership; and further notes the support provided to a local newspaper by providing this regular and high quality column for publication.
Mr Kerr said: “Keith is so passionate about advocating for the environment and what an achievement to have done that for well over 40 years.
“Not only that but he has done so through the pages of the Observer, helping support the local press and bringing the natural world to its readers.
“Now more than ever we need people like Keith to remind us of what a precious world we have and are responsible for.”
Keith was grateful to Mr Kerr for tabling the motion and presenting him with a framed extract from Hansard, featuring the motion.
“The lake and its wildlife has been a constant source of inspiration over the years when writing these articles for the Observer which I hope have not only conveyed a flavour of the natural world but have also raised awareness of some of the threats it is faced with,” added Keith.
Observer editor John Rowbotham said: “Keith has been one of our most valued contributors for almost 50 years now.
“His passion for wildlife and the natural world is something he brings to life in his column every week for our readers.
“His commitment is such that he has even been known to write his column from his sick bed, having avidly watched birds and animals outside his window.
“In a circulation area such as ours, particularly with such a vast rural landscape, the environment and wildlife is often at the heart of our stories and Keith is an invaluable source of advice and information. He thoroughly deserves this national recognition.”