Mathew Frith
Photo credit: Eve Edwards
London Wildlife Trust is sad to announce the passing of Mathew Frith
It is with the deepest sadness that we share the news that our dear friend and colleague, Mathew Frith (Director of Research), has passed away after a long illness. Mathew was, in many ways, the heart and soul of London Wildlife Trust. His passion for nature, his commitment to London’s wild spaces, and his unwavering belief in the power of community have shaped the Trust into what it is today.
For decades, Mathew championed the idea that London’s wildlife and people are inseparable. His leadership and insight have guided countless nature conservation and recovery projects in London and inspired new generations of conservationists. Whether it was creating wetlands like Woodberry, protecting woodlands like Sydenham Hill, or speaking up for urban nature in the face of immense challenges, Mathew approached everything with humility, courage, and a rare generosity of spirit.
Beyond his extraordinary professional achievements, Mathew had the gift of making everyone feel valued, listened to, and supported. His warmth, humour, kindness and occasionally grumpiness (mainly at computers) will be remembered so fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. We are taking time as an organisation to remember Mathew properly and to honour his legacy. We will share details soon about how we will honour Mathew’s life, and please do share your own memories of Mathew with us.
Mathew’s vision and dedication to London's nature recovery will live on in the work we all do for the wild places he loved, for the forgotten corners of London and for the people he inspired.