A Peterborough man’s ‘eco dream’ has been given the seal of approval by the Queen.
The Peterborough Railworld Wildlife Haven, situated next to the Nene Valley Railway, in the centre of the city, has been awarded the prestigious Queen’s award for volunteering.
This award was created by the Queen in 2002 to celebrate the anniversary of the Queen’s coronation, recognising excellence in voluntary activities carried out by groups in the community – It is the MBE for volunteer groups.
The Railworld Wildlife Haven was the brainchild of Brian Pearce, who, with the help of local companies and thousands of volunteers, has completely transformed a derelict piece of land into a city centre oasis of natural beauty.
Now, twenty-five years later, the Haven has become a mecca for volunteers and its learning centre and model railway, welcomes schools and organisations from across the area.
All the people who work at the Haven are volunteers and Brian puts its success down to them and the local companies who gave so much to turn his idea into reality – “So many people give their time for free at the Haven and it just goes to show what you can create when people come together as one.”
Brian also paid tribute to the countless companies who’ve given their time, knowledge and experience to the project for free – “Without the help of the likes of Perkins, BGL, Caterpillar, Skanska and others, this dream would never have become a reality. Their staff have volunteered, along with so have many thousands of other people and the award belongs to each and every one of them – it is such an honour.”
Tracey Crouch, Minister for Sport and Civil Society, said:
“Everyone who has received this award should be incredibly proud. Their service, commitment and care has a profoundly positive impact on communities throughout the country and I am delighted they have been recognised with this prestigious award.”
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Video produced by Paul Stainton PS Media.
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