The Tree Council is delighted to announce that Jon Stokes, its Director of Trees, Science and Research, has today been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 for services to tree conservation.
Jon’s journey with trees began more than 50 years ago when, as a child, he planted a tree with his father as part of The Tree Council’s Plant a Tree in ’73 campaign – an early experience that helped spark a lifelong passion for trees and the natural world.
That passion led to a career spanning more than 35 years at national charity, The Tree Council, where Jon has become one of the UK’s leading tree conservationists, helping to shape how trees are protected, understood and valued across the country.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this award.
“Both the trees and the people have shaped my journey and given me the opportunity to combine my hobby with my work.
“What could be more joyful or more fortunate than that!”
Jon Stokes said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award.
“My love of trees began as a child and over the years, I’ve been inspired by so many people – friends, colleagues, partners and especially the Tree Wardens – our remarkable volunteers across the country who care so deeply about trees.
“Both the trees and the people have shaped my journey and given me the opportunity to combine my hobby with my work.
“What could be more joyful or more fortunate than that!”
He was instrumental in developing community-focused initiatives such as the Tree Warden Scheme, supporting thousands of volunteers to take action for trees in their own communities. Throughout his career, Jon has drawn inspiration from volunteer Tree Wardens, a community whose knowledge, care and commitment have played a central role in his work – many of whom he proudly counts as good friends.
A defining feature of Jon’s career so far is his relentless advocacy for trees outside woodland—including trees in towns and cities, on farms, in orchards and hedgerows, and ancient and veteran trees. Working closely with colleagues in government, including at Defra, he has helped ensure these vital but often overlooked trees receive the recognition, policy attention and funding they deserve.
As Director of Trees, Science and Research, Jon brings together communities, organisations and policymakers to protect and expand tree cover across the UK, combining scientific expertise with a deep commitment to public engagement.
Alongside his advocacy work, Jon is also a respected author and communicator. His comprehensive WildGUIDES Trees of Britain and Ireland book, published last year, brings together decades of experience, helping more people recognise and understand the trees around them.
“We are absolutely delighted that Jon’s extraordinary contribution has been recognised in this way.
“His determination to ensure that trees outside woodland are properly valued and supported has been transformative, and his deep respect for the Tree Warden network has helped connect national policy with local action.
“This honour is richly deserved.”
The Tree Council CEO, Sara Lom said: “We are absolutely delighted that Jon’s extraordinary contribution has been recognised in this way.
“From planting his first tree as part of our Plant a Tree in ’73 campaign to becoming one of the UK’s most respected voices on tree conservation, Jon’s journey reflects a lifetime of dedication.
“His determination to ensure that trees outside woodland are properly valued and supported has been transformative, and his deep respect for the Tree Warden network has helped connect national policy with local action.
“This honour is richly deserved.”
Over the course of his career, Jon has contributed to national conversations on climate change, biodiversity and the protection of the UK’s natural heritage. His work has consistently highlighted the vital role trees play – not only in woodlands, but across the wider landscape – in supporting wildlife, strengthening communities and creating a more resilient environment.
His recognition comes at a time when trees are increasingly central to efforts to address the climate and nature crises, underlining the importance of sustained leadership, collaboration and public engagement in this field.
Jon added: “One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that every tree matters – on our streets, in our hedgerows and orchards, on farms and in our parks – and they all quietly deliver benefits for people and nature every day.
“They are the true heroes of this story, and this award is really for them – our amazing unsung heroes: our trees!”
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