Six-year-old conservationist Avery, wins North York Moors Young Ranger Award

Avery Hamilton has taken first prize in the 2020 Young Ranger Award which recognises the contributions of young volunteers to help conservation efforts, improve visitor access or work closely with local communities in or around the national park.

Avery, from Bramham, near Wetherby, is described as “an unstoppable force for good” and was chosen as the winner due to her “passion and dedication for conservation” both within the North York Moors and elsewhere.

She was nominated for the award which is aimed at those aged 21 or under, by her godfather, Ben Grant.

“Avery talks endlessly about conservation, pretty much to anyone who will listen,” he said.

“She has volunteered to give talks at her school about the subject and has waged a personal war on littering in her local area.”

The first prize, scooped by Avery is £750 to put towards travel to any national park, following which they will share their insights and findings with the North York Moors National Park trustees.

Avery, who is a member of the National Park’s Explorer Club said she was very happy to have won. “I love it when I can help the Explorers plant the baby trees to make new homes for the animals.”

Michael Graham, from the North York Moors National Park Trust, said Avery’s passion for volunteering was clear to everyone who meets her. “Over her time with the National Park’s Explorer Club she has brought along every member of her family, all of whom have been inspired to work as hard as her for the same cause.

“Avery also carries that passion into different areas of her life, encouraging her friends at school to care about the environment.”

Scooping second prize and £250 to visit a national park was 15-year-old Matthew Parker from Ruswarp, near Whitby.

As well as being an active member of the North York Moors Young Rangers, Matthew also volunteers with the Explorer Club where he supports and encourages younger children with practical tasks including clearing ditches and habitat management. Matthew was described by the judges as an “excellent role model and ambassador, who approaches all his voluntary work with great energy and enthusiasm”.

Also recognised for their commitment to volunteering as Young Rangers were 17-year-old Finlay Brown, from Ingleby Greenhow, near Stokesley, and 16-year-old Henry Lealman, from Harome near Helmsley.

The Young Ranger scheme is open to 11 to 17-year-olds with monthly activities.

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