AWARDS have been handed out to schools, councils, volunteers and individuals who have worked to improve the environment. The Standing Conference of South Pennine Authorities presented its annual accolades at Burnley Town Hall.

Winner in the individual category was Craig Bell, of Crawshawbooth, who was nominated by Lancashire County Council. Craig has spent the last 24 years protecting and enhancing bird life in the South Pennines.

Plaques were given to Burnley Council for reclaiming land to form the Byerden Holme Linear Park and Hapton Parish council for environmental works including an adopt a grass verge scheme.

Cash prizes and certificates were given to Lancashire Heritage Trust for reclaiming wet land at Lomeshaye Marsh and creating a nature reserve and volunteer-run Trees for Burnley who are helping create the millennium Forest of Burnley and look after local woodlands.

Three schools received prizes and certificates. Sacred Heart, Colne, has created a willow park, Lowerhouse Juniors, Burnley, improved their playground and Todmorden Road Primary completed environmental works in the playground.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.