John Ducie is a native of Dublin with a passion for his city and explaining both it and Ireland to visitors. He has had a life long interest in cultural and natural heritage of all kinds. John retired as Properties and Conservation Manager of the National Trust for Ireland in 2012 to devote himself to a full-time career as a docent. Originally qualifying in Horticulture from Ireland's premier horticultural institute The National Botanic Gardens he also has an Hons. Bachelor of Business degree and a National University of Ireland Professional Certificate in Genealogy and Family History In the past he has chaired the Heritage Gardens and Designed Landscapes Committee for ten years, has served as Vice Chairman of The National Trust for Ireland, President of the European Network of National Heritage Organisations, a member of the Executive Committee of the International National Trusts Organisation and the Council of Europa Nostra (the pan European Heritage Alliance).