Martin’s calling for a wild time

May 2 2009 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

Environment Editor Tony Henderson talks to a man whose life was changed by the call of the wild.

TOMORROW is International Dawn Chorus Day – and that means work for Dr Martin Kitching. But it isn’t work as it used to be.

For two years ago wildlife enthusiast Martin made a life-changing decision.

He had studied for a PhD at Newcastle University in medicinal chemistry, concentrating on anti-cancer drug design.

There followed a spell in the United States at the University of Texas and the Arizona Cancer Centre.

Eventually he became head of chemistry at Coquet High School in Amble in Northumberland.

Then Martin, 42, decided to make a living from showing people the rich diversity of wildlife and landscape in Northumberland and the North Pennines.

He set up Northern Experience Wildlife Tours and has just completed his first year of trading.

“I finally did something I had been thinking about for 10 years,” said Martin, who lives in Bedlington in Northumberland.

He had seen the potential while spending leisure time as field trips officer for the Northumberland and Tyneside Bird Club.

“I made what was a massive change, but it was the best thing I ever did and the best idea I have ever had. I absolutely love it,” said Martin.

“When I’m out in the countryside, I’m living my dream.”

He takes up to six clients at a time on Land Rover half and full day safari trips.

Destinations include Druridge Bay, Lindisfarne, the Farne Islands, the Cheviot Hills, Kielder, the North Pennines and the north Northumberland coast.

The targets for the tours is wildlife such as the birds of prey and red squirrels of Kielder, black grouse in the North Pennines and the Cheviot Hills, otters at Druridge Bay and the seabirds and seals of the coast.

Boat trips look for whales and dolphins.