All voluntary societies rely heavily on the enthusiasm of
a few dedicated officers and committee members and Thurrock
has been particularly fortunate in this respect over the
years. Human society has for a long time obtained its
increased standard of living by exploiting finite
resources, often giving little thought to the generations
that are to follow. Thurrock Natural History Society has
done much to try and reverse this trend by drawing attention
from time to time to changes in the environment that would
reduce flora and fauna in the area for ever. Its regular
illustrated bulletin, lectures, field studies, rambles and
coach visits to other Nature Reserves have brought pleasure
to many people, giving them a wider understanding of the
relationship between human society, plants, animals and
insects. For this alone we say "thank you".
This booklet, with the help of many enthusiastic
contributors, brings together for the first time details
of much of the natural history of Thurrock, Essex and the
wider countryside. Let us hope it stimulates others to
join and continue the good work of Thurrock Natural
History Society in the future.
Heath Place
Orsett
Essex
6