After more than twenty years in rented accommodation, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) has moved to a new Head Office in the heart of Dorset.

Dr Tony Gent, ARC’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our new Head Office provides a modern and inspiring space in which our staff, trustees and volunteers can flourish and thrive. Celebrating our official opening with the help of ARC patron, Lucy Cooke was a fitting start to this new era. Thank you to Lucy for her enthusiastic support and we look forward to working closely with her in the future.”

The new office on the ground floor of 744 Christchurch Road in Boscombe, Bournemouth has been refurbished throughout by the Trust and the official opening was marked by 32 guests, comprising of ARC Trustees, staff and volunteers. All were thrilled to welcome ARC Patron, zoologist and BBC Springwatch presenter, Lucy Cooke who opened the new office by cutting a ribbon with a pair of loppers!

"My passion for conservation comes from my childhood love of frogs, which led me as a graduate to travel the world in search of rare species as a documentary maker.  Essentially I’m a storyteller and would love the opportunity to tell the story of our native amphibian and reptiles and raise the profile of those working on the front-line so am looking forward to visiting ARC’s habitats next spring" said Lucy

The afternoon featured a presentation from Dr Gent about ARC which was followed by an inspiring speech from Lucy, who was then taken on a tour to one of ARC’s flagship reserves Town Common. Thank you to everyone who joined us in marking this momentous occasion.

ARC Trustees, CEO Dr Tony Gent and Lucy Cooke