Dudley geology expert who put Black Country on the global map is appointed an MBE

A leading figure behind the creation of the Black Country Unesco Global Geopark has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026.

Colin Prosser, who works closely with Dudley Council at Wrens Nest National Nature Reserve, has been appointed an MBE for services to the conservation of geological heritage in Britain.

Mr Prosser played a key role in securing Unesco Global Geopark status for the Black Country,

He recently retired from Natural England, the Government’s advisory body for the natural environment in England, after a distinguished career dedicated to the conservation, management and promotion of geological heritage.

Throughout his career, he has been a passionate advocate for the Black Country’s internationally significant geology.

Brought up and educated in Dudley, he studied geology at universities in Manchester and Swansea before embarking on a career in nature conservation.

He remains closely involved with the Black Country Geopark as a volunteer, continuing to help the team to deliver, promote and celebrate the area’s rich geological, natural and cultural heritage.

He said: “I have spent my whole career working to conserve, manage and promote the highlights of Britain’s geological heritage and, to my mind, there is nowhere more interesting than the Black Country.

“The geology here defines the Black Country, providing the coal, limestone, ironstone and clay that fuelled the Industrial Revolution and shaped our landscape and culture, with nowhere better illustrated than at Wren’s Nest National Nature Reserve.

“I am extremely honoured to be recognised with this award, which is in no small part down to the innovation, enthusiasm and hard work of the many colleagues, partners, volunteers and members of the local community involved.”

The Black Country Geopark covers Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton and tells the story of 428 million years of geological history. Its globally significant sites help attract visitors, support education and inspire communities to value and protect their natural heritage.

Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, congratulated Mr Prosser for his honour.

“Colin’s passion, expertise and dedication have played a major role in ensuring the Black Country’s extraordinary geological heritage receives the international recognition it deserves,” he said.

“The Unesco Global Geopark is one of the region’s greatest assets, showcasing the landscapes, fossils and industrial heritage that helped shape not only the Black Country but the modern world.

“Colin has been an outstanding ambassador for our area and an inspiration to many people working to protect and promote our natural environment and his MBE is fitting recognition of a lifetime of achievement.”