2 Local Hero of the Year

WINNER: Jonny Rankin for Dove

Step This category is your chance to recognise the sterling work of someone you know who might otherwise go unsung. The winner is selected by the Birdwatch/ BirdGuides team. As ever, there were many fantastic nominations, all of whom would have been deserving winners. But there can be only one and the whole team agreed that, with several nominations, Jonny Rankin is a very worthy recipient of the award for his outstanding work with Dove Step, raising funds for and awareness of the plight of European Turtle Dove.

As one reader put it: “Jonny is passionate in all that he does, and an all-round top guy. His endless enthusiasm to take on and complete extreme endurance events, to raise funds and awareness for Dove Step is amazing. His 130-km run in June 2021 was an astounding achievement that raised notable funds for the charity. Amazing work Jonny – well done!”

Another described him as “devoted to the cause of the turtle dove and a committed fund raiser to help increase numbers of this beautiful bird”.

In recognition of the award, Jonny will receive a year’s free extension to his BirdGuides News Ultimate subscription.

We will be celebrating more of your Local Heroes in our March issue (on sale 24 February 2022).