The Sherwood Forest Trust is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Norman Lewis, a much-loved Vice Patron and a tireless advocate for the natural heritage of Sherwood.
Norman was a true force of nature. His depth of knowledge, enthusiasm and unwavering passion for improving the natural environment — particularly across the Sherwood landscape — were exceptional. Few people matched his understanding of Sherwood’s ecology, history and future potential, and fewer still shared it with such generosity.
Former SFT Chief Executive, Dr Patrick Candler, first met Norman shortly after taking up his role, when Norman got in touch to introduce himself and arrange a welcome meeting. What followed was the beginning of a long and valued relationship. Norman’s encyclopaedic knowledge of Sherwood, much of it grounded in his work with the Trust during the late 1990s, provided an invaluable historical perspective that helped shape and inform the Trust’s work in the years that followed.
Norman played a key role in the Sherwood Advisory Group, where his insight and experience were widely respected. He was also instrumental in the founding and operation of the Sherwood Habitat Strategy Group, a collaborative partnership bringing together organisations with a shared interest in the past, present and future of Sherwood Forest.
It was at an SFT AGM in 2013 that Norman first raised his long-held aspiration for a Sherwood Seedbank — a dedicated nursery to collect and grow native Sherwood tree species. That idea would later become a reality, with Norman offering guidance and encouragement throughout its development.
Despite declining mobility in later years, Norman’s commitment to the Trust never wavered. He attended AGMs without fail, often joining remotely, and remained actively engaged in discussions and decision-making. Even after moving into care, his enthusiasm and sharp mind were unmistakable.
Those who visited Norman at his home in Toton were treated to a glimpse of his own personal woodland — a front garden transformed into a wildlife haven. His love of nature extended indoors too, through a remarkable collection of books and papers, many of which related to the early years of the Trust. This archive has since been carefully preserved, catalogued and shared, ensuring Norman’s legacy continues to inform and inspire.
In his later years, although his voice grew softer, his mind remained as sharp as ever. He was always welcoming, thoughtful, and remembered for his warm — and slightly cheeky — smile.
Norman Lewis was a remarkable individual, a generous mentor, and a steadfast servant of Sherwood. He will be greatly missed, but his contribution to the landscape and to the Sherwood Forest Trust will endure.
Our thoughts are with Norman’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
