A student and wildlife enthusiast has been nominated for an international conservation prize.

27-year-old Lyndon Howson, of Grange-over-Sands, is in the running for the Conservationist of the Year - Fauna award at the People of Nature awards, organised by WeNaturalists.

The nomination recognises Mr Howson's work in native species conservation and ecology, and his focus on integrating youth governance to promote environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

Mr Howson, who recently graduated from the University of Chester with a First Class honours degree in Zoology, is already the recipient of the Mammal Society's Mammal Champion Award for his work on a student-led project to create a hedgehog-friendly campus.

As part of the national accreditation programme, called Hedgehog Friendly Campus, Mr Howson has grown the Chester group from seven volunteers to a force of more than 170 individuals who have registered their interest in helping hedgehogs.

Mr Howson's other awards include the FW Hooper Prize from the School of Natural Sciences, awarded annually to a student consistently producing work of a high standard.

Mr Howson said: "I am so proud to be nominated for this international award recognising my efforts in native species conservation, particularly with hedgehogs, as well as my work in youth governance.

"My specialism in public speaking and engagement allows me to effectively communicate the needs and interests of my peers.

"Through my experience collaborating with volunteers, local councillors, and community groups, I have promoted native species conservation and provided a voice for young people."

Jo Wilkinson, senior project manager, Hedgehog Friendly Campus, said: "Lyndon is the University of Chester’s student hedgehog champion for Hedgehog Friendly Campus, a programme funded by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society.

"Lyndon has not only implemented the programme brilliantly but has also significantly expanded its reach and impact.

"Under his leadership, the project has seen remarkable growth, with the number of volunteers nearly tripling in the past year.

"Lyndon's passion and commitment to empowering the next generation of environmental leaders have been instrumental in fostering a culture of conservation on campus and beyond.

"Lyndon’s dedication to youth advocacy and environmental stewardship has left an indelible mark on the programme."

Mr Howson will continue his studies with a Masters by Research (MRes) at Chester later this year, focussing on the role schools can play in hedgehog conservation.