A WHITLAND man has been presented with a special RSPCA award for his tireless animal welfare work.

Michael Sharratt has dedicated his life to wildlife welfare for over 50 years. He helped to set up the badger group in West Wales, known as Badger Watch and Rescue Dyfed, and is still an active member.

He was awarded the prestigious Queen Victoria Silver Award at a star-studded ceremony at the Royal Society in London, hosted by Alastair Stewart OBE, on Wednesday night, July 11.

Michael was praised for being available 24/7 to be called out to help animals by the RSPCA and the local police, council and vets.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben said: “Mike has given advice to homeowners about badgers causing problems in their gardens. By the end of the conversation the person who had concerns end up wanting to feed the badgers and encourage them to their gardens!

“He is a fount of knowledge and expertise and is always there with a smile when we need his assistance.”

Michael has a small approved wildlife rehabilitation unit where he has helped over 300 foxes, badgers and on occasions otters, swans and polecats; the majority of which have been released back to the wild thanks to his care and expertise.

For the last few years Michael has been consulting with the Welsh Government in relation to the issue of Bovine TB. He has also worked closely with many small local welfare charities that have asked for his help and he has always readily given his time, passion and knowledge.

Michael said: “I feel it is a great privilege to have been awarded an honour by the RSPCA but I also feel that this honour belongs to many helpful people and brave animals in Wales. Thank you RSPCA.”