Craig Fellowes, the Wildlife Crime and Training Officer for Badger Trust, and a resident of Warwick, has been awarded an MBE in the King's Birthday Honours List.

This recognition is a "testament to his unwavering dedication to wildlife protection" the trust said.

The award reflects 40 years of commitment to fighting wildlife crime through a police service and training career, work with the National Wildlife Crime Unit and his present role at Badger Trust.

Craig is a great friend of the badger and has now trained every police force in England and Wales to recognise and record crimes against badgers, helping them secure successful prosecutions. 

Craig's expertise is needed more than ever as badger baiting gangs and other criminals continue to persecute this wonderful animal.  

Following the announcement, he said: "This is a great honour for myself and everyone who has supported me in my work fighting crimes against wildlife. Nature needs protection, and I hope this award shows how important this work is."

Peter Hambly, Badger Trust Executive Director, said: "This honour is well deserved as Craig has committed his working life to protecting wildlife. Badgers are one of the most persecuted of all species and Craig has trained hundreds of people from police forces, local badger groups and other organisations to detect and prevent crimes against them.  

"This vital work has made a real impact and led to many prosecutions of people who are out to harm badgers. Well done, Craig, and thank you for all your work helping wildlife."