The Award celebrates the life and ethos of Jean Cartman, a much-loved member of Northumberland Wildlife Trust for over 40 years, a passionate wildlife gardener, knowledgeable birdwatcher, and generous supporter of environmental causes.

With a top prize of £500 and two runner-up awards of £250, the Award caused a flurry of interest amongst community groups across Northumberland, Newcastle, and North Tyneside.

Award organizers were delighted to receive over thirty applications from groups working with everything from red squirrel protection projects and community gardens to youth clubs, faith groups, a local radio station, and even a social enterprise bakery. 

Each entry highlighted the amazing work happening across the region to protect wildlife and build stronger connections within communities.

The overall winner of the competition was Pottery Bank Community Allotment and Garden based in Walker, Newcastle. With its motto, Plant Dreams - Pull Weeds - Grow Happy Life! The Project was recognized for creating a welcoming, inclusive space where people can connect with nature and each other. Through activities such as mindful gardening, woodworking, cooking and nature walks, the allotment supports wellbeing and community connection.

The £500 award will now help with the development of new habitats, including a wildflower meadow and woodland haven in a previously neglected space. 

A second project in Walker was one of two runners up. The Garden Project was congratulated for its thoughtful approach to supporting older, vulnerable, and isolated residents, with its beautiful community garden providing sanctuary for people and wildlife alike. 

Open to the public, the project will use the £250 prize money to expand wildlife habitats, improve accessibility, grow vegetables for local meals, and share plants with residents.

The second runner up to receive the £250 cash boost was the Briardale Community Garden in Blyth.

Part of Briardale House Youth & Community Projects Ltd, the initiative provides hands-on access to nature for people of all ages and abilities. The runner-up prize money will enable the team at the garden to invest in new accessibility equipment to help even more people benefit from their vibrant garden space.

Cathy Sharp, Northumberland Wildlife Trust’s Communities/Wildlife Outreach Officer says:

“The Jean Cartman Wilder Communities Award is more than just financial support, it is a wonderful celebration of grassroots action and a reminder that small, local efforts can lead to big change for people and the planet!

“We are so grateful to Mrs Cartman’s family for generously donating the prize money and provide lasting legacies so such a wonderful supporter of wildlife and conservation.”