Colin has been described as a "visionary pioneer" and "outstanding ambassador" for wildlife conservation in the county and was among the first to realise the benefits of taking a holistic approach to landscape conservation.

Commenting on the award, he told local journalists at Shropshire Star: "I think I got a letter three or four weeks ago and you never expect it and I was surprised – it was totally unexpected. It's lovely to be recognised. The main thing that strikes me is is that the many people you work with deserve the credit just as much as you do, so in some ways I feel like a bit of a fraud."

Colin had been chief executive of the Shropshire Wildlife Trust since 1991 up until his retirement in 2020. He has led ground-breaking initiatives within the Shropshire Wildlife Trust but also as an innovator and enabler across the partnership of 46 Royal Society Wildlife Trusts.

For Shropshire Star's full article, please click here.