A sparkling honour for New Forest volunteer Jenni

A WOMAN who has spent more than 20 years volunteering to help conserve the special qualities of the New Forest has been given a top award for her dedication.

Jenni Tubbs won the New Forest Trust’s Diamond Jubilee Award thanks to what was hailed as her “significant contribution” to protecting the area.

A member of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Jenni also sits on the council of the Friends of the New Forest (formerly the New Forest Association) and is its representative on Forestry England’s open Forest advisory committee.

She also volunteers for New Forest Friends of the Earth on the New Forest consultative panel.

William Ziegler, chairman of the New Forest Trust, said: “Jenni is a worthy winner, giving her time with energy and determination.

“I have personally known Jenni for more than 20 years and am so pleased she was chosen by the panel to receive the award this year.

“She has been a true unsung hero and defender of the Forest for so many years.”

Jenni was presented with her award at the New Forest Heritage Centre by Mary Montagu, director and vice-chair of Beaulieu Enterprises.

The New Forest Diamond Jubilee Award is given to individuals who “without expectation of recognition or reward, have given freely of their own time and made a significant contribution towards maintaining and improving the environment and rural economy”.