UNSUNG HEROES whose hard work and commitment helps protect the Peak District in Britain are being celebrated in the annual UK National Parks Volunteer Awards.
The awards recognise those people who have gone above and beyond expectations in helping to protect, maintain and enhance the environment and heritage at the 15 national parks across in the country.
In the Peak District National Park some 400 volunteers gave around 60,000 hours of their time last year to ensure the landscape continues to enrich lives for generations to come.
Cllr Lesley Roberts, chair of the Peak District National Park Authority, said: “Volunteers contribute to looking after the Peak District in so many ways from getting involved with community science activities to guiding visitors to supervising conservation projects.
“I am constantly impressed with the time and effort people give to this much-loved landscape.
“The awards are a great way of saying thank you, as well as encouraging more people to get involved in helping these unique and diverse landscapes.
“I would urge people to nominate those dedicated individuals who give up their time to help look after the Peak District National Park.”
Volunteers being nominated can range from school children to those who have offered decades of services and awards will be given in four categories:
• Individual (over 25 years old)
• Young person (under 25 years old)
• Group
• Volunteer project
Winners of the group and project awards will receive a £1,000 bursary to help towards future volunteering activity. The winning individual and young person will each receive his or her choice of clothing from outdoor specialist and UK National Parks brand partner Merrell.
To nominate a deserving individual, young person, group, or project visit the National Parks website.
The deadline for nominations is midnight on Sunday September 20. The winners will be announced in November.
To find out about volunteering in the Peak District National Park, see here.
