It has been another wild year for environmental charity the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust (YWT). It has taken ownership of and found some new species on its reserves; introduced new and innovative methods of looking after wild spaces, and advocated for nature’s protection.

A spokesperson for YWT said: “Our events and activities inspired hope; from wildlife gardens and beach cleans to guided walks to watch puffins, school children learning about curlews, fungi forays at our annual festival, and drystone walling and wild flower walks in the foothills of Ingleborough.” While thousands of people have been able to witness Yorkshire’s wildlife at its finest, many having been inspired to boost YWT’s 45,000-strong membership, or its 1,000-strong body of volunteers, YWT has also faced its challenges - including the driest spring in the county for 132 years.

“This is a cause for concern for those of us caring for our wildlife and our nature reserves – particularly rare wetland habitats, which are at high risk from drying out and require preparation to adapt, restore and protect in a changing climate,” said the spokesperson.