A Harden man who helped save a mill pond in his village from developers has won a top conservation award.

Richard Hockin received his award from the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust during the charity's members day earlier this month.

He received praise for rallying fellow residents to campaign for changes to development plans.

Ricky Donner, the trust's chairman of council, said Mr Hockin made a "real individual effort" to protect a site in his village.

Mr Donner said: "He took on the planning system, involving other local residents by raising a petition.

"Plans were amended to re-create the pond and the site is now managed for conservation and public open space.

"Mr Hockin has worked on a management plan for the site and supervised its implementation. Now the pond and its wildlife can be enjoyed by the local community."

The trust's conservation awards are sponsored by the power company npower to recognise the best achievements for wildlife in Yorkshire.

Community relations manager for npower Kevin Rogers applauded Mr Hopkin's efforts and eagerness to involve others.

He added: "A key aim of our community relations programme is to encourage people to protect their local environment, making it better for future generations."

The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust began in 1946 with the aim of protecting valuable sites across the county as nature reserves.

It has expanded its role in recent years to promote wider recognition of wildlife issues and their importance to people's lives. The trust can be contacted on 01904 659570.

Mr Hockin is pictured receiving the award from Kevin Rogers, second left, npower's community relations manager for Yorkshire.