Waverley environmental group wins award for campaigning against oil drilling in Dunsfold
It has received the recognition for its work in the community
A Surrey environmental group has won a national award for its contribution to a campaign against a new exploratory oil well at Dunsfold, near Godalming.
Waverley Friends of the Earth has received an Earthmovers Award, organised by Friends of the Earth and supported by the players of People’s Postcode Lottery, which recognises the work of local environmental groups in their communities
The group was involved in working alongside other local activists and organisations to persuade Surrey councillors to reject the application by UK Oil and Gas (UKOG) in 2020.
Surrey County Council refused UKOG’s application twice during that year.
Campaigners were concerned about the impact the project would have on the environment, the community, local businesses, highway safety and a nearby Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Kathy Smyth, campaigner at Waverley Friends of the Earth, said: “For the best part of two and a half years, we’ve been working on this campaign and supporting local people who wanted to resist this proposal.
"The campaign was challenging and the odds weren’t stacked in our favour, and that’s why receiving this award is such an honour.
Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “The Earthmovers Awards recognise the hard work being carried out all around the country to protect the environment.
"I’m so pleased that support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery is celebrating the vital role that local groups play in helping their community thrive.”