Some of Oxfordshire’s “inspirational” climate action heroes were honoured at an awards ceremony.

Eighteen groups, social enterprises, individuals, businesses, and other organisations picked up the High Sheriff's Climate Action Heroes Awards for their schemes, ranging from wildlife restoration work to renewable energy projects.

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Three community action groups also picked up £500 grants each from Oxfordshire County Council to help them achieve their targets.

Imam Monawar Hussain, the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, said: “The climate emergency is the single biggest issue facing humanity and so I offer my heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients of this prestigious award. It has been humbling and inspiring to read the nominations.

“Taking my theme of celebrating Oxfordshire's heroes, I felt that it was appropriate to celebrate as many individuals, community groups and businesses as possible, who are passionate about climate action and who have made a demonstrable contribution to their local communities.

“I hope that by doing so, not only is this an opportunity to celebrate and recognise outstanding contributions to climate action in the county, but this will also act as a catalyst and an inspiration, for further climate action initiatives in our county.”

The awards ceremony was held yesterday at the Oxford Trust’s Wood Centre for Innovation in Headington Quarry, Oxford.

One of three double award winners was Thame Green Living. It scooped a prize in the community action category for its Thame Green Living Plan, while its founder and driving force Charles Boundy also won an individual award for his work.

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The group, previously known as the RSA Thame Group, created a 10-year environmental plan for Thame from 2020-30, focussing on the themes of biodiversity, water, air, energy, and waste.

Mr Boundy said: “It has been a big part of my life for eight years, from concept to delivery, after starting with a blank sheet of paper. I wasn’t a rabid environmentalist to start with, but I am now.

“We’ve had tangible results such as planting trees, putting in footpaths connecting meadows, encouraging the regeneration of grass verges, setting up walking routes, and promoting cycling. We’ve also introduced schemes for discounted solar roof panels, electric car charging and a local electric car hire club, among others.

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"But it’s also a long-term change project to inform people about the issues, encouraging them to stand up and be counted.”

Also picking up two prizes was the Marston Community Gardening project in Oxford. It was given a £500 grant from Oxfordshire County Council, while the group’s co-founder Alistair Morris claimed an individual award.

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