The South Downs National Park celebrated a hat-trick of successes for its inspiring work to help nature and people at a glittering ceremony at the Houses of Parliament.

The National Park Protector Awards included a shortlist of 20 people and projects that go the extra mile for our stunning protected landscapes, with the South Downs achieving three in the final list.

Taking the top spot in the “Young Changemaker of the Year” category was Robson Peisley, who became the youngest National Park Member in the country at the age of just 21. Members lead on strategic decision-making for National Parks.

Meanwhile, the National Park narrowly missed out on the top trophy for its ReNature Campaign, which has helped to create or restore 12,000 football pitches into nature havens and planted more than 100,000 trees over the past five years.

Robson Peisley won a prestigious National Park Protector Award

placeholder image — Robson Peisley won a prestigious National Park Protector Award

Another nature project, Chichester’s Halnaker Hill Farm, also made the final shortlist after renaturing 330 acres of previously intensively-farmed land into a landscape rich in flora and fauna. A recent butterfly survey was nothing short of phenomenal, with scores of nationally-important species recorded such as dingy skipper butterflies and sulphur pearl moths.

Regarding her win, Robson, 22, who is based in Brighton, said: “Winning this award means so much to me, both as recognition of my work personally and of the South Downs National Park Authority. Last year when I joined the Board I became the youngest National Park Authority Member in the country, and when I was appointed I wanted to help amplify youth and diverse voices across our Protected Landscapes.

“I truly didn't expect to win, and I hope that other young people and those from marginalised communities see this award and recognise that they can also drive forward change in the landscapes they love. I'd encourage anyone, no matter who they are, to speak up for what they care about and drive forward the change they want to see.”

Robson said the South Downs National Park continues to inspire her every day.

She added: “In the South Downs we're so lucky to be surrounded by such rich culture, natural habitats, heritage, and communities. As a conservation scientist myself, our wildlife and lush chalk grasslands are a particular highlight, and when I'm not working I love to get out in the landscape birdwatching. Whilst I didn't grow up here, the rolling chalk hills remind me of growing up in the Chilterns and bring back fond memories of time with my family and spotting red kites. It's such an honour to be a Member and play a very small role as part of a wider partnership of people driving forward incredible work to make the South Downs a diverse landscape where people and nature thrive alongside each other, building the climate resilience and community strength to withstand future challenges."

South Downs farmer Will Atkinson said: “It’s an honour for the team at Halnaker Hill Farm to be recognised for the landscape scale change we have made to 330 acres of the South Downs. Previously an arable farm, the project has converted the whole farm to chalk grassland, wildflower meadows, 24 hedged paddocks, three large dew ponds and large areas of scrub.

“It’s a reflection after only two years, if you give wildlife a home they will find it. The number of so many previously rare species is astounding and the excitement we have generated among ecologists and nature lovers has spurred us on to achieve so much more.”

Vanessa Rowlands, Chair of the South Downs National Park Authority, attended the ceremony and spoke of her pride.

Vanessa Rowlands, Chair of South Downs National Park Authority

Vanessa said: “To have three shortlisted among such tough national competition is a real accomplishment and underlines the positive and ground-breaking work taking place at the South Downs National Park.

“I’d like to particularly congratulate Robson, who is a powerful and inspirational representative for the voices of young people. Young people are the future custodians of our incredible National Parks and it’s vital we hear more of their voices.

“I’d also like to thank the many people who have contributed to the success of the ReNature campaign, including staff, local communities, farmers, charities, businesses, schools and many more. Well done to all the winners and nominees – all such positive stories that bode well for the future of National Parks.”

The National Park Protector Awards are run by the Campaign for National Parks, an independent charity founded in 1936 dedicated to securing the future of National Parks in England and Wales. Learn more at www.cnp.org.uk