CAMPAIGN OR CAMPAIGNER OF THE YEAR

KEEP THE BAN campaign against fox hunting

FOUNDED IN 2015,

Keep The Ban is a non-profit organisation campaigning to end the hunting of wildlife in the name of sport. Its mission is to

“create a world in which all wildlife is free from persecution”, and in particular to “encourage future generations to turn their backs on bloodsports”. With 30 per cent of the public vote, the project was described by TGO readers as a “brilliant campaign to close the numerous loopholes”, whilst those involved were praised for their “dedication, diligence and sacrifice in helping animals”.

▲ Dr Mya-Rose Craig ‘Birdgirl’, wildlife activist

Dr Mya-Rose Craig, otherwise known as ‘Birdgirl’, is a 19-year-old British Bangladeshi ornithologist, environmentalist and diversity activist, as well as a writer, speaker and broadcaster. “She is a very important voice in Britain today, representing a diverse young generation that does not want to lose the natural world we live in,” commented one voter. Expressing similar sentiments, another wrote: “MyaRose is an inspiring young campaigner that has achieved so much in bringing the natural world to all, especially BME groups, and campaigning for climate justice.”

▼ 3 Dads Walking campaign raising awareness of suicide

Mike, Tim and Andy are three fathers who tragically lost their daughters Bethany, Emily and Sophie to suicide. In memory of their lost loved ones, in October 2021 the trio embarked on a 300-mile walk between their homes in Cumbria, Manchester and Norfolk, raising money and awareness of suicide, the biggest killer of those under 35 in the UK. The ‘3 Dads Walking’ raised an incredible £828,000 for the suicide prevention charity PAPYRUS. “Such a simple campaign to convey a powerful message” wrote one voter, whilst another said “they are using their personal tragedies to do so much good”.