The Robert Erith National Landscape Award
The Robert Erith National Landscape Award aims to recognise and highlight the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to conserving and enhancing the Dedham Vale National Landscape and wider Stour Valley.
The Award
Award winners will receive a framed copy of a linocut print created by local artist, Jem Seeley, and produced by Drab Ltd featuring the Dedham Vale National Landscape's iconic species, the Hazel Dormouse.
Why is it important to do this?
It is important to recognise the hard work and amazing contributions that people are making to improve the National Landscape, so it is better for wildlife, communities, and visitors.
The recognition of this annual award will hopefully inspire others to get involved in the Dedham Vale National Landscape and Stour Valley to ensure its outstanding landscape, wildlife, heritage, and culture is protected for all to enjoy.
Award Winners
Geoffrey Probert
The first award was presented in 2021 to Geoffrey Probert for his outstanding work in expanding and energising the Stour Valley Farmer Cluster and promoting conservation & biodiversity on a landscape scale.
Adrian Silvertown
In 2022, Adrian Silvertown was awarded the honour in recognition of his incredible work creating a bespoke field survey app as part of the Hedgerow Heroes Project, funded by CPRE, the Countryside Charity, and delivered locally by Suffolk Preservation Society and the Stour Valley Farmer Cluster.
East Bergholt Futures
For 2023, a record number of nominations were made by members of the public and the winner was East Bergholt Futures for the instrumental role it played in the Hedgehog Friendly Village Project, which saw several initiatives introduced to support the local hedgehog population.
Nayland Land Company
Nayland Land Company were named the 2024 winners in recognition of two decades of outstanding work in the village of Nayland. Set up in March 2004 to hold ownership of a substantial field on the River Stour in Nayland, the Land Company has cared for the land within its ownership for more than 20 years, providing many benefits to the community in Nayland.
Criteria for Nomination
Whether an individual, organisation or group, anyone can be put forward for the award if they have made an outstanding contribution to the Dedham Vale National Landscape and wider Stour Valley.
Achievements could include community projects that have benefited nature, volunteers who have inspired others, unsung heroes deserving recognition, or groups that have engaged people with the landscape. All nominations are welcome!
How will the Award process work?
The winner will be chosen from the nominations received, decided by a panel of judges including the National Landscape Joint Advisory Committee Chair and a representative from the staff team.