The Woodland Trust Volunteer of the Year 2010 results are now out! Selecting winners this year from such a dedicated and talented bunch was no easy job. But after a lot of deliberation we are really pleased to announce the results.
The overall winner receives the Watkins Memorial Medal, named after our founder, Kenneth Watkins.
The Overall Winners are...
St Albans Support Group
For over 10 years the St Albans Support Group have been an active and enthusiastic bunch for the Woodland Trust. Not only are they instrumental in supporting one of the biggest local appeals the Trust has seen (Heartwood Forest), they have distributed thousands of appeal leaflets, given talks to over 45 groups in one year, recruited other volunteers and raised funds all for the benefit of the Woodland Trust. Louise Neicho says; 'They are an inspiration and without doubt have helped to make the Heartwood Forest project a success'.
...and the rest...
David George for the North of England: David leads a small group of volunteers who work tirelessly hard on various sites in Northern England. Tim Kirwin said 'They are the unsung heroes of my patch.'
Keith Walkling for the Central region of England: Keith is a volunteer warden whose diplomacy and cross organisational skills have helped Stoke Wood develop considerably.
Mick and Linda Fitter for the South East of England: An inspiring retired couple who have been Volunteer Wardens for over 20 years and are as active now as they were in the 1980s.
Pam Savage for the South West of England: Pam's passion and commitment to Abbots Wood doesn't go unnoticed and her 'quiet resolve' continues to inspire everyone around her.
Peter Tait for Scotland: Peter's commitment to keeping Huntly Wood a clean and tidy place, as well as his negotiation skills which ensured vital road repairs, all contribute significantly in keeping the wood a pleasant area to visit.
Stephen Maxwell for Northern Ireland: Stephen's eagerness and speed in 'getting the job done' does not go unnoticed, whilst still producing stunning pictures for use in Broadleaf and presentations.
John Heathcott for the Speaker Award: With impeccable local knowledge, consistently great feedback and even repeat bookings John is a real asset to the Volunteer Speakers team.
Vanessa Champion for the Ancient Tree Hunt Award: Verifying an incredible 569 records and recording 120 new trees is the tip of the iceberg of Vanessa's commitment to the Trust. She has been described as 'a star', 'a wonderful person' and 'the face of Cumbria for the ATH'.
Georgina Smith for the Photography Award: With over 130 excellent images, which have been used in the past two Woodland Trust calendars Georgina is a 'thoroughly deserving winner!'
Judith Parry for the Project Award: Even with three young children Judith continues to support and promote Heartwood - 'an exceptional volunteer...and a great ambassador for the Trust'.