Whitby teenager recognised with National Park Award
15-year-old Matthew Parker volunteers to help younger children carry out conservation tasks.
A teenager from Ruswarp has won second prize in the 2020 North York Moors National Park Young Ranger Award.
The scheme recognises the contributions of people aged under 21 to help conservation efforts, improve visitor access or work with local communities.
15-year-old Matthew Parker is an active member of the park's Young Rangers group, as well as volunteering to mentor younger children in the Explorer Club.
He was described by the judges as an excellent role model and ambassador, who approaches all his voluntary work with great energy and enthusiasm.
He's been given £250 to visit a national park of his choosing.
First prize went to six-year-old Avery Hamilton from Wetherby, whose Godfather says "has waged a personal war on littering in her local area.”
Michael Graham from the North York Moors National Park Trust said:
“Avery’s passion for volunteering is 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.”
On winning the award, Avery said: “I'm so happy. I love it when I can help the Explorers plant the baby trees to make new homes for the animals."
She's been awarded £750 to visit any National Park with her family.