Page 12 • The HERALD • 18th September 2025 v EMAIL YOUR NEWS: editor@herald-publishing.co.uk v Acorn Building Contracts Ltd u Reliable, local builders offering affordable, quality workmanship u Our employees are fully qualified and fully insured u All aspects of building undertaken including extensions, structural alterations, roofing, ground works, kitchens, bathrooms, carpentry and plastering u Drawings arranged u Insurance work undertaken u Local Approved Contractor For free quotations and friendly advice please call Office: 023 8024 3336 Mobile: 07786 656865 Email: acornbuilding@gmail.com or visit our website: www.acorn-builders.co.uk You will not be disappointed A.M.H. Handyman Services Internal & External Painting All aspects of DIY Work • Flat Pack Assembly Power Washing: Driveways, Patios, Paths & Decking, Gutters, Fascia Boards Call or email Andy for a free estimate Tel: 07961 443623 handyandyharding@gmail.com Local and Reliable PVCu FASCIAS & GUTTERING CLEANING SERVICE Gutters checked for leaks and repaired Also new installations Driveway, Patio and Decking Cleaning and Restoration Service Very reliable and fully insured Good Rates and Professional Service Special Rates for OAP’s Call us now for a free quote Holbury 07884 112416 Internal & External Decorating Wallpapering & Dustless Sanding FULLY INSURED PROFESSIONAL PAINTER & DECORATOR MARK 1 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE To advertise your business in The Herald, contact Sue on 023 8084 0815 or email: sjones@herald-publishing.co.uk New Forest Champions Crowned in 2025 Awards e New Forest National Park Authority and the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) have announced the winners of the 2025 New Forest National Park Awards. Now in their 12th year, the awards celebrate the wonderful people who work year-round to support the New Forest’s environment and rural economy. To mark the New Forest National Park’s 20th anniversary, a new award – Commoning Champion – was introduced this year to recognise individuals who play a crucial role in preserving this traditional practice which is key to maintaining the Forest’s landscape and biodiversity. Winners of the 2025 awards – supported by Moore Barlow and the New Forest Agricultural Show Society – were: Lewis Potter, from Calmore, won the Young Farmer award for his outstanding dedication to farming at just 16 years old. Alongside volunteering daily at Storms Farm, he’s vice chair of the Brockenhurst Young Farmers Club. He recently fully restored his own 1947 Ferguson tractor, which he proudly takes to rallies and shows, and even drove to his prom. Judges described him as ‘a truly inspiring young role model whose breadth of commitment and maturity far exceed expectations for his age’. Family-run Sway Butchers received the Best Supporter of Local Produce award for its growing commitment to sourcing high-quality local meat from small, nonintensive farms that prioritise animal welfare and environmental stewardship. It actively promotes the quality and local origins of its products, helping to establish Sway as a go-to destination for New Forest fare. e award also recognises Sway Butchers’ e orts in championing the bene ts of eating locally-sourced New Forest wild venison. Ringwood Repair Café was crowned Sustainability Champion for its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability, signi cant reduction of waste, and the vibrant community spirit it fosters. Launched only last year, it has quickly become invaluable to the local community, with local volunteers generously sharing their diverse skills and time. e free monthly repair cafe not only saves residents money but has also the RSPB, and the New Forest Green Hover y Group. Professionally, he works as an assistant ecologist and has contributed to conservation projects for the Forestry Commission and the RSPB. A certi ed marine mammal medic and trained wildlife tracker, he’s also an engaging public speaker. His Instagram page @rhystouringnature, connects people with nature through wildlife photography, environmental education and positive action. Ben Dolbear from Beaulieu was named Farming and Nature Champion in recognition of his deep commitment to sustainable agriculture and conservation. As Director of Bright Seeds, Ben advises farmers and landowners on the best conservation and pollinator-friendly seed mixes, while also running his own farm. A recent carbon audit has helped him identify key areas to focus on in his sustainability journey, while continuing to create, maintain and improve wildlife corridors across the holding. Passionate about bridging the gap between farming and the wider public, he educates and inspires non-farming audiences wherever possible. New for 2025, the Commoning Champion award was presented to Andrew Parry-Norton from Cadnam whose deep-rooted passion and commitment to the traditions of the New Forest and commoning shine through. He’s chair of the New Forest Commoners Defence Association, acting chair of the Forest Farming Group, and is a director of both New Forest Marque and Go New Forest. Andrew is generous with his time and knowledge, supporting fellow commoners as well as engaging with local schools, young farmers and various community groups. He works tirelessly raising awareness of the value of commoning and safeguarding its future in the Forest. This year’s highly commended were: • Young Farmer: Gemma Hobbs. • Best Supporter of Local Produce: New Forest Hamper Company. • Sustainability Champion: Lucy Bramley. • Young Environmental Champion: Kamron Flaxman. • Farming and Nature Champion: Matt Phillips. • Commoning Champion: Clive Maton. e winners were recognised at a special ceremony at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show, with individual trophies presented by New Forest Agricultural Show Society President 2025 Lord Willie Manners. prevented nearly 600kg of waste from ending up in land ll. It has also established a sustainable model to ensure its continued success. 25-year-old Rhys Leighton from West Wellow won this year’s Young Environmental Champion award. A passionate environmentalist, he volunteers with organisations including the Wildlife Trusts, CPRE, New Forest Awards winners 2025 at the New Forest Show
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