Words of Appreciation
To all our very dear new friends in this country and abroad who have overwhelmed us with messages of love and appreciation of our lovely Kate.

We cannot put into words how much we thank you for your wonderful support at this unbearably painful time, and especially for the truly magnificent commemorative volume of tributes, memories and photographs that you presented to us at Kate’s funeral. We can only begin to appreciate the huge effort and care that went into its compilation at an already extremely hectic time for you all.

We are touched beyond words. It served also to remind us that we are far from alone in mourning her loss and we in turn offer our sincere sympathy to all those who are suffering with us. We knew, of course, that Kate’s work meant a tremendous amount to her, but clearly we had no idea of just how much she had influenced the lives and work of so many people; we can only hope that she knew, but suspect that, even if she did, she might not have believed it!

Your messages have brought many tears, of course, but also smiles, and although nothing can ever fill this gaping void in our lives, your words will certainly help to remind us that we are not alone in realising what an outstanding person Kate was, and how tremendously fortunate we were to have had such a daughter and sister. A brilliant light has gone out of our lives and our world can never be quite as sunny again, but your kindness in sharing these beautiful tributes will, we are certain, help to sustain us in the years ahead.

The establishment of the memorial award fund will keep Kate’s name alive in a way that we could not have imagined. We are immensely grateful to all those associated at every level with the BP Conservation Programme, and to many others, who have pledged their generous support. It is a great comfort to know that her name will live on, and that young conservationists will benefit in the years ahead.

We wish you all every success in your admirable endeavours.
Ken, Sue and Antony Stokes