A hedgehog champion has been awarded a prestigious international honour.

Lyndon Howson, a 27-year-old from Grange-over-Sands, has been named Conservationist of the Year – Fauna at the 2024 People of Nature Awards, organised by WeNaturalists.

This award recognises his 'dedication to native species conservation' and his efforts to integrate 'youth governance to promote environmental stewardship and sustainable practices'.

The People of Nature Award is a global recognition celebrating individuals whose 'outstanding commitment and efforts contribute to the protection and preservation of the environment and biodiversity on earth'.

Mr Howson, a former recipient of the Mammal Society’s Mammal Champion Award, was nominated for his role in native species conservation and ecology.

He has been described as a 'passionate advocate for nature recovery' and has spearheaded numerous conservation initiatives, demonstrating leadership through innovative collaborations with volunteers, local councils, and community groups.

His work on the student-led Hedgehog Friendly Campus Project at the University of Chester has been pivotal in his conservation efforts.

In just 18 months, he expanded the initiative from a small volunteer base of seven to a thriving community of more than 170 volunteers, each playing an active role in hedgehog conservation.

Reflecting on his award, Mr Howson said: "I’m truly honoured and feel incredibly fortunate to receive this award.

"It’s a humbling experience to be recognised in this way, and I’m deeply proud of the work I’ve been able to accomplish.

"This award is a reminder of how meaningful and important this journey in conservation has been for me so far."

His passion for advocacy extends beyond the hedgehog project.

Through his position on Chester Zoo’s Youth Board, he has championed the role of young people in conservation, using this platform to empower the next generation of environmental leaders.

He has a degree in zoology from the University of Chester, and is set to continue his studies with a Master’s of Research (MRes), investigating the role schools can play in advancing hedgehog conservation efforts across the UK.

Dr Krista McLennan, head of the School of Natural Sciences at the University of Chester, said: "Congratulations to Lyndon on achieving this amazing award.

"We’re constantly impressed with his dedication to conservation and look forward to seeing what he does next."

Jo Wilkinson, senior project manager at 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."