A Catterick Garrison teenager has been recognised for his outstanding work and contribution to conservation and the environment.
Risedale School pupil Thomas Gibbons has received the Conserver Award, the highest accreditation possible within the John Muir Award programme.
The John Muir Trust is a conservation charity dedicated to the experience, protection and repair of wild places across the UK.
The award encourages people of all backgrounds to connect with, enjoy and care for wild places.
To achieve the Conserver Award, Thomas had to complete 20 days of working and supporting projects in the Yorkshire Dales National Park over a minimum of a six-month period.
The 13-year-old said: “I was so pleased to receive the award.
“It was hard work but really enjoyable. I love anything to do with protecting the environment and getting involved with green projects in my local area.”
Thomas is a Dales Young Ranger and a member of the Youth Environment Forum, run by the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust.
Rosie Russell-Cohen, Youth and Communities Officer for the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, said: “As a key member of the Youth Forum, Thomas is part of the select group that helps plan environmental events, raise awareness about environmental issues and makes decisions about what the project does and how it is run.”
Thomas’ form tutor and head of drama at Risedale, Amy Southworth-Gedye said, “We’re all really proud of Thomas here at school.
“It’s humbling to hear how dedicated Thomas is to his role as a Young Ranger and the time he dedicates to our local area is inspirational.
“I’m sure that Thomas will be a great advocate for conservation and ecology for many years to come.”
As part of the presentation Thomas received a certificate and personal letter from David Butterworth, chief executive of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, commending his efforts.
You can find out more about joining the Young Rangers here: https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/park-authority/looking-after/volunteering/young-rangers/
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Very well done Thomas, keep up the inspiring work.