The Prime Minister has recognised Peter Lyons, from Bangor, County Down, who has been instrumental to the ‘Woodland Trust’ in expanding their work across Northern Ireland.

After first getting involved at his local reserve of Kilcooley Wood as a warden

responsible for maintaining the site, Peter was instrumental in transforming the land into a space where people from the local community could engage with the environment and learn about sustainability through the guided walks he provides. He now offers support for the ‘Woodland Trust’ across all of Northern Ireland’s 50 woods, providing advice to landowners on conservation management and giving regular talks to members of the public about the importance of trees and woodland.

Peter is the latest recipient of the Points of Light award, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.

In a personal letter to Peter, Prime Minister Theresa Maysaid:

“Your dedicated support of woodland areas across Northern Ireland has been vital in improving sustainability in your local environment and is a testament to your remarkable commitment and expertise. By giving talks on conservation and offering guided walks of nature reserves, you are encouraging hundreds of people to appreciate the natural beauty of the ‘Woodland Trust’ sites across the country.”

Patrick Cregg, director of the ‘Woodland Trust’ in Northern Ireland, said:

“A heartfelt thank you to Peter for his tremendous support. He has helped us tirelessly for years – from helping with events, tree planting, giving talks to groups, taking photos and more. The list is endless. We’re a relatively small team here in Northern Ireland and very much rely upon the support of our volunteers. We hope that, through Peter’s example, others might be encouraged to volunteer with us.

“This is a wonderful accolade for such a selfless gentleman, who is held in high esteem by all at the Woodland Trust.”

Peter said:

“I am both delighted and honoured to be recognised through the Prime Minister’s Points of Light award. In fact I can honestly say that it’s the highest honour ever bestowed upon me.

“I’ve been volunteering my services to a number of organisations for decades, becoming deeply involved with conservation charity the ‘Woodland Trust’ since 2002. I’ve a genuine interest in the environment, and am delighted that – through my time and efforts – I can really make a difference.

“It’s wonderful to be recognised in such a way and this is a truly positive start to the New Year – thank you!””

Peter is the 889th winner of the Points of Light award, which has been developed in partnership with the hugely successful Points of Light programme in the USA. Over 6,000 Points of Light have been awarded in the USA, and former Presidents have publicly supported the partnership with Points of Light UK. There is a similar cross-party approach to the UK programme and MPs from different parties often present their constituents with their Points of Light awards.

Regardless of whether it’s a doctor restoring local monuments in her free time, a father teaching young people life skills, or a local musician giving a voice to lonely people, the Points of Light award honours shining examples of volunteering across the UK.