Michael J Woods and Associates became Michael Woods Associates Ltd. in 2003, moving from its original base in Cheddar to the outskirts of Wedmore in Somerset. The company also set about expanding in size and ambition. Over the next few years Michael oversaw the expansion of the business to 5 full time staff and a number of seasonal assistants. Included within this team was Jonathan Woods, Michael's son. Jonathan had grown up surrounded by wildlife and it is was no surprise or accident that Jonathan showed the same aptitude and field skills that Mike did. Jonathan had a particular passion for working with Bats and helped to develop the businesses expertise in this area.
Sadly Michael was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) and although he continued to work with the company until shortly before his death in early 2010.
After Michael's death Jonathan recruited Tom Clarkson, an old friend and highly experienced ecologist and manager to take over the business. Together Jonathan and Tom helped to drive the business forward, expanding the client base and continuing to provide intelligent, practical solutions to ecological constraints.
Tragically Jonathan was killed in a climbing accident in Pembroke in early 2011. Understandably 2011 was a difficult year for the business. Nevertheless, the hard work put in by Jonathan and Tom provided a firm foundation for the company which, despite the setbacks, has gone from strength to strength. Michael Woods Associates now finds itself with more full time ecologists than ever before and have a burgeoning and expanding list of clients with whom we work regularly.
