Jennifer Fulton: Tributes paid to Ulster Wildlife CEO who was 'force for nature'

Tributes have been paid to the chief executive of conversation body Ulster Wildlife after her passing following a short illness.

Jennifer Fulton had led the environmental charity since 2012, with Ulster Wildlife saying she led the organisation with 'passion, energy and dedication'.

A statement said Ulster Wildlife was 'shocked and saddened' by news of Jennifer's death.

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"It is with deep sadness that Ulster Wildlife is sharing the news of the passing of our Chief Executive, Jennifer Fulton, after a short illness," a statement said.

"Jennifer passed away peacefully at the MacMillan Unit, Antrim Area Hospital on Sunday 5th May surrounded by her family. Our deep condolences are with all her family and friends at this incredibly sorrowful time.

"Jennifer joined Ulster Wildlife as our Chief Executive in 2012 and led the charity with passion, energy and dedication - spearheading many areas of work including farming with nature and peatland restoration.

"Her commitment and drive to achieve nature’s recovery through our work was evident and an inspiration to anyone that knew her.

"Jennifer’s passing is not only a huge loss to Ulster Wildlife but to the wider nature conservation sector in Northern Ireland, in which she played a pivotal part."

The charity is setting up an online book of condolence on its website for anyone that knew Jennifer through her role at Ulster Wildlife and who would like to leave a message of condolence.

Jennifer is survived by her husband Norman and children Sarah, James and Peter, with many tributes coming in on social media for a 'fearless' campaigner.

Among those was DAERA minister Andrew Muir, who described Jennifer as an 'exceptional person'.

"Immensely sad news," Muir said.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Norman and family plus the many friends and colleagues who worked with and knew Jennifer, an exceptional person who is deeply missed."

Jennifer's funeral will take place at Stevenson’s Funeral Home in Ballymena on Wednesday 8 May.

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