Declan Gallagher

TRIBUTES to Declan Gallagher, whose work has helped protect and enhance Hampstead Heath, have been paid after he passed away at 57.

Mr Gallagher was the operations manager at the open space and worked for 17 years on the Heath.

He passed away after a brief illness, following an accident while he was refereeing a rugby game.

Declan, who is survived by his three beloved sons, proved to be a hugely popular member of the Heath team.

Among many achievements in protecting and enhancing the Heath’s natural aspects, he played a crucial role in managing the smooth passage of the vital safety work needed on the Heath’s man-made ponds in 2015.

Now members of the Heath Consultative Committee have set up a Just Giving page in his memory.

Guitarist John Etheridge, who knew Mr Gallagher for many years, said: “This has come as a huge shock to so many. Declan was like the people who use the Heath. He was always there, always available for a good chat. I really respected how involved he was. He genuinely cared.

“He knew every blade of grass, every tree. You could quiz him on anything and he would come back with a measured and intelligent response. He understood what the Heath meant. He recognised its value.”

Mr Etheridge added the response to the fund raising page for Mr Gallagher’s family had already topped £1,000 and was a mark of the respect he was held in.

And his knowledge was recognised nationwide. Mr Gallagher was appointed a judge in the national Green Flag Award scheme.

William Upton KC, chair of the City’s Hampstead Heath management, said: “I can’t quite believe that Declan is no longer with us. His positive attitude, quiet humour, wise words, and invaluable experience will be greatly missed.

“He put his heart and soul into his job and we have all benefited from his many years with the City Corporation.

“Declan’s legacy lives on in the exceptional open spaces he was so dedicated to maintaining, and in the fond memories of his colleagues and of all those involved with looking after the Heath, who so valued his friendship and support.”

A statement from his colleagues on the Heath added: “We are still in shock after the sudden passing of our dear friend and colleague, Declan.

“He was one of the most kind, generous, funny, and genuine people we have had the pleasure of working with. Our thoughts are with his family and in particular his three lovely sons, who he was so proud of, at this difficult time.”

https://www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/declan-gallagher

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