A student from the University of Chester committed to wildlife protection has earned a national accolade.

Lyndon Howson, currently studying for a degree in Zoology, has won the Mammal Champions award.

This award recognises his unflagging determination and leadership as the volunteer project coordinator for the hedgehog friendly campus project.

Not only that Mr Howson has earned a place in the Universities UK (UUK) 100 Faces campaign, honouring 'first-in-the-family' students and graduates making impactful contributions to the UK in various fields.

He is lauded in the Science and Healthcare Pioneers category for his devotion to the well-being of wildlife.

Celebrating its 70th anniversary, the Mammal Society has launched this acknowledgement of those offering their time and energy towards a brighter fate for British mammals.

The 27-year-old, originally from Grange-over-Sands, received this award for his work as a coordinator for the university's hedgehog friendly campus project.

In the past 18 months, the project has expanded significantly.

Initially consisting of seven volunteers, it is now supported by a force of over 170 individuals actively working towards helping hedgehogs.

Mr Howson has said: "Being recognised by the Mammal Society, an organisation I've looked to for inspiration as I embark on my career in mammal conservation, is truly inspiring.

"This award will serve as a beacon of inspiration, as I continue with my dedication to mammal conservation efforts."

Mr Howson's systematic efforts have not only enlarged the volunteer group but significantly contributed to the campus's hedgehog population, growing from zero to eight in 18 months.

Additionally, Mr Howson has focused on widening the project's reach beyond the university.

His actions include participating at Chester Zoo's Wildlife Connections Festival where he interacted with over 4,000 people, sharing information to raise awareness about hedgehog conservation.

Besides wildlife work, Mr Howson previously spoke at Buckingham Palace about his experience with the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) awards and his journey with cancer.

Jo Morison, volunteer and mentor manager at the university of Chester, said: "Lyndon has been an incredibly motivated volunteer, since commencing his volunteering on the hedgehog project in 2022. "Since then he has worked tirelessly to raise the profile of the project and generate opportunities to expand the scope of the project.

“The Volunteering Team is really proud of his many achievements and winning this award really demonstrates his commitment to helping protect hedgehogs. "Congratulations Lyndon!”

Mr Howson's mentor in the university, Dr Krista McLennan said: "Lyndon is an exceptional student." She later added: "He has shown outstanding commitment and determination to his studies and to the wider community. "He is an inspiration to students and staff.”

Matt Larsen-Daw, chief executive officer of the mammal society, also said: "Lyndon deserves recognition for his outstanding dedication and leadership in spearheading the Hedgehog Friendly Campus Project at his university.

"His advocacy goes beyond local efforts, as he has addressed global audiences, delivering a speech at Buckingham Palace emphasising the importance of hedgehog conservation."