Martin has been a key player in helping STC establish itself as a grower focused centre for the interpretation and transfer of science & technology.
Initially working for ADAS for 13 years, Martin joined HRI (Horticulture Research International) in 1992 based at Stockbridge House. In 2001 when Defra announced the closure of the site there was widespread discontent in the industry, especially as it put at risk the minor use (SOLA) programme which Martin had initiated and run for approximately 10 years. With the generous support of many growers, the site and operation were rescued and placed in a charitable grower owned foundation.
In recent times, via the Innovation Centre CHAP & Innovate UK, Martin has been instrumental in bringing several new facilities to the site including new biopesticide facilities and an additional ‘commercial pilot’ multi-tier LED unit; both of which are due to open in the coming months.
Despite having a range of interests & responsibilities, Martin’s true love has always been crop protection and plant pathology more specifically, and this has always been more than a job, it’s been his vocation. As a result, Martin is still keen to support the industry he has worked with for all his career and he is hoping he will still be able to find time to do this in the future as an independent consultant.
At Stockbridge, Dr David George and Dr Phillip Davis, supported by the rest of the science team, send Martin best wishes for the future and look forward to both carrying on much of the work Martin helped start, but also using the new facilities he secured for the future of transferring technology to growers.
For more information:
Stockbridge Technology Centre
Cawood, Selby,
North Yorkshire, YO8 3TZ.
Tel: +44(0)1757 268275
Fax: +44(0)1757 268996
