Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust's new Wilder Awards recognises community conservationists

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is launching its first annual Wilder Awards event to celebrate those who’ve made a difference in their communities by ‘bringing wildlife back into our lives’.

The trust launched its Team Wilder initiative in January 2020 to help create wildlife habitat in communities.

Despite the restrictions of the pandemic, the trust wants to celebrate the achievements of conservationists who have overcome these obstacles to help support local wildlife.

Chief executive Debbie Tann said: ‘The Wilder Awards are a vital part of our strategy to create a wilder Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

‘We know that wildlife is in trouble and to turn things around we’ve called on the people to join us in taking positive action to address this.

‘We’ve been bowled over by the response to our Team Wilder programme and now we want to celebrate and recognise the fantastic work that’s being done with these awards, not only to say thank you but also to spread the word there are solutions to nature’s decline, and hopefully inspire even more people to act for wildlife in their communities.’

Environmentalist Norman Pasley is sponsoring the Campaigner of the Year Award which recognises an individual who has led an initiative to ‘bring about positive change for wildlife in their area’.

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Norman said: ‘I'm delighted to sponsor the Campaigner of the Year Award and encourage the precious work of campaigners across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

‘In my view, we need more campaigners to help nature flourish. All change starts at grassroots level, driven by people with local knowledge and the energy to succeed.

‘Progress comes from understanding where the threats and opportunities are and taking actions as required.

‘Many aspects of our lives today are enriched because of the campaigners before us. I hope the campaigners we seek now will become part of this legacy - making nature better for future generations.’

Other categories include the Naturalist Award, Farming with Nature, The Champions and Leaders of Positive Action, Group Award and Outstanding Contribution. There will also be awards for the most environmentally proactive school and business.

You can submit nominations for each award via hiwwt.org.uk

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