The King’s birthday honours list has revealed that a British Empire Medal is to be awarded to a former Trustee and volunteer from Kent Wildlife Trust who has worked with the charity for over 40 years.
Victoria Golding began her journey with the Trust in the 1970s after meeting her husband Pete who was a member of Kent Wildlife Trust. With Pete, she managed the North Team and discovered a passion for wildlife that remains with her today.
Victoria has worn many hats over the last 40 years, volunteering in the Visitor Centre, leading groups, chairing the Conservation Committee, conducting talks, trustee, and Victoria (or Vic as she’s better known) has recently signed up as a Wild About Gardens Advisor too.
The support shown by Vic and husband Pete to the organisation has been immense and they represent the passion, drive and enthusiasm of the charity and volunteers.
The British Empire Medal is awarded for a ‘hands-on’ service delivered to the local community. This could be a long-term charitable or voluntary activity, or innovative work of a relatively short duration (3 to 4 years) that has made a significant difference.
After hearing about the nomination, Victoria said: “I’m proud to receive this award, and I hope it will show the world outside Kent Wildlife Trust what a special organisation it is because its volunteers are committed over the long term. It offers people with many different skills the opportunity to learn and contribute to our great role in protecting and enhancing biodiversity throughout Kent.”
Head of Wilder People and Places, Keeley Atkinson who wrote the nomination said: “Victoria embodies so many of our values and has sacrificed her time to make Kent a better, wilder place for everyone. Over the years she has remained enthusiastic and driven so much positive change.
“We have an amazing group of volunteers, and we are extremely grateful to each and every one of them, without them we would not be able to make such a significant difference in creating a county where wildlife can flourish.”
