Waldringfield Wildlife Group (WWG) has been named the winner of the 2026 David Wood National Landscape Award, recognising more than 20 years of work to protect wildlife, improve habitats and encourage a greater appreciation of the natural world.
Founded in 2005 by the late Angela Mace, WWG has grown into a thriving organisation with around 70 members. The group's work has ranged from protecting barn owls, swifts, hedgehogs and spotted flycatchers to creating wildlife corridors and encouraging the planting of wildflowers along village verges.
Wildlife surveys and the careful recording of sightings have also contributed to a better understanding of the species found in and around the Waldringfield area of Suffolk.
Linda Wilkins together with Alexis Smith and Jill Winter receive the award from Simon Amstutz
Education and community involvement have been equally important. Working with the village primary school and conservation organisations, WWG has introduced children and families to the wildlife on their doorstep through practical activities, talks and outdoor events.
The award, presented by the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape, recognises outstanding contributions to the conservation and enhancement of this nationally important landscape.
Linda Wilkins, Coordinator of Waldringfield Wildlife Group, welcomed the award:
‘It is fantastic that the group has received recognition for its various initiatives to highlight the wonders of the natural landscape, the wildlife it supports within our community and the threats it is facing.
For Waldringfield Wildlife Group, the recognition is both a tribute to those who established the organisation and a celebration of the volunteers who have sustained its work over two decades.’
Linda added that the group intends to place greater emphasis on monitoring local biodiversity and involving younger generations in nature conservation.
