Hi folks,

This was supposed to be a very special update but, as you will see, things didn't quite turn out as planned...

Some of you may have seen a Twitter post from Natural England's Director of Operations, James Diamond this morning. He was looking forward to meeting with me to discuss our petition.
I had managed to secure this meeting a few days ago. The news that a senior figure from Natural England had agreed to meet with me was a significant and unexpected development. The meeting was scheduled to take place at their Cheshire offices today.
Having prepared detailed questions and references with regard to our campaign, my intention was to share with Mr Diamond all of the concerns that we have over Natural England's licencing system.

So, 'suited and booted' and more than a little nervous, I was about to board a train at Liverpool Lime Street station when I received an email from Mr Diamond, alerting me to the fact that his train was delayed and that he would have to reschedule our meeting for another time. I asked if there was any chance he might still make it (although he was delayed I would have been prepared to wait) but he declined and suggested that there was no alternative but to reschedule.
Luckily I hadn't quite boarded the train at that moment, so I wasn't actually en route, but it was little consolation given that I had taken a day off work and was unable to get a refund on my travel tickets at such short notice.

I know the more cynical among you might wonder if Mr Diamond made every possible effort to keep the appointment.... But I'm not going to judge, I will just put this down to experience and consider it a missed opportunity for Natural England who might have been able to use this valuable meeting to explain, or attempt to justify, their bird kill licences.

I'm not inclined to repeat this morning's palaver (and personal expense) by rescheduling the meeting, but Mr Diamond has agreed to a video call, which we are now in the process of arranging....

So a huge anti-climax I'm afraid folks! I was hoping so much to have some really positive news for you today, following what would have been a real turning point for our campaign. I was even hopeful that I might be able to bring you a major result.
Alas, all we have is a deferred meeting and I find myself disappointed and somewhat deflated.

But not defeated!

I'll keep you all informed of any further development, including the proposed video call.
Meanwhile, let's keep up the pressure, yes? Please share our petition wherever you can!

Thanks and best wishes,
Jase