OUTDOOR PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

CHRIS PACKHAM

RECEIVING A WHOPPING

42.5 per cent of the public vote, conservationist Chris Packham was widely respected by TGO readers for his “passion” and “tireless championing of the environment”, even in the face of adversity. As one voter eloquently put it: “‘Dedication to the cause doesn’t go far enough for Chris Packham – he is relentless in his determination to protect and conserve our wildlife and habitats.

Chris experiences personal attacks on his home and abuse through social media f or standing up for his beliefs and still remains focused, determined and resolute. We must protect our planet. Who wouldn’t admire that?”

Russell Moorhouse

Russell Moorhouse, otherwise known as A Mountain Bivvy online, is trying to ‘sleep bag’ the Wainwrights by wild camping on the summit of all 214 of these Lakeland fells. He has already completed 160 (at the time of writing) and is also raising money for the charity MQ Mental Health Research. Russell said: “I couldn’t have lost to a better man. Chris is a national treasure and I hope someday I can go on and do as much good for the outdoor community as he has. I’m really pleased to receive this award – it means my ‘Sleeping with Wainwright’ adventure is inspiring"

 Will Renwick

“It was such a hard challenge – one that I’m still recovering from – but the support has been so incredible. Thanks to everyone who voted for me and to those who donated too. Diolch!” That’s how Will Renwick summed up winning the bronze award, in recognition of his efforts running 189 summits in Wales in support of the Mind Over Mountains charity. He raised over £12,000 and set a new peak-bagging record in the process. Voters described Will’s adventure as “phenomenal" and “incredible”.