YOUNG people who volunteer to conserve and promote the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park have scooped the Commitment to the Environment Award at the recent Radio Pembrokeshire Young Achiever Awards.

The National Park Authority’s Youth Rangers are a group of 16 to 25 year olds, who volunteer a day or weekend every month to take part in practical tasks and visit some amazing places out in the National Park.

Youth Ranger Scheme Co-ordinator Tom Moses said: “The Youth Rangers have been very involved in championing volunteering in a variety of ways and also undertake John Muir Awards which recognise their achievements outdoors – discovering, exploring, conserving and sharing wild places.

“They have carried out diverse practical tasks in all the habitats within the National Park, as well as working in local communities to raise awareness of the benefits of environmental engagement amongst local people.”

The scheme has attracted a range of young volunteers since it started in 2013 with many recruited from organisations involved with the Park Authority’s Your Park project.

The group consists of 14 members with two having attended since the scheme started and a further five have been involved for at least two years.

The scheme helps overcome barriers to volunteering that many young people face including transport, learning disability, economic disadvantage, lack of direction or low confidence and self-esteem.

Taster days for new recruits are held regularly – for more information contact tomm@pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk.