24 August 2016
Dr Hilary played an instrumental role in the
redevelopment of the New Ferry Butterfly Park in the Wirral, which
is run completely by volunteers, including Hilary.
The park was once under threat and Hilary was
one of a number of key players who helped to save this valuable
site for wildlife. Working alongside organisations such as Cheshire
Wildlife Trust and Wirral Council has led to the regeneration of
this urban wildlife gem which is now thriving.
Hilary has introduced training days for park
wardens to help improve the warden and visitor experience.
She also holds a variety of training courses at
the park including sedge, grass and bee identification. Also
Schools and uniform groups visit the park regularly; the park
really is a hive of activity.
She promotes the nature reserve to people of all
ages and backgrounds, from Rainbows through to professionals,
educating and entertaining in equal measures.
Paul Todd, Green Flag Award Manager
said:"Congratulations to Hilary for winning the Green Flag
Award Volunteer of the Year. It is clearly an important park to
Hilary but Hilary is also important to the park. It just shows us
how vital the role of volunteer is to our parks and green space up
and down the country."
Beth Alvey, Volunteer and Training Manager at Cheshire Wildlife
Trust, said:"As a member of our local volunteering group in
Wirral Hilary has made an outstanding contribution to our work. Her
knowledge of local wildlife is incredible and her enthusiasm and
dedication is exemplary. We're really pleased she has been
acknowledged in this way - it's a well-deserved award."
Paul Loughnane, Honorary Secretary, New Ferry Butterfly Park,
said:"Hilary has been a bedrock of the park from the very
beginning and continues to be an inspiration to all our
volunteers. Her dedication, environmental knowledge and sound
judgement shine through.
The surprise presentation of the award at the Park's annual
community BBQ in front of a large assemble of fellow volunteers,
visitors and family added greatly in celebrating 21 years of the
park being open to the public. We are all so proud of
Hilary's achievement. This accolade inspires the volunteers
to improve the park even further. Do visit us."