
A Yorkshire Dales farmer has been recognised for his efforts in farm-based education.
Neil Heseltine, of Hill Top Farm, Malham, was announced as the winner of the 2026 Living Landscapes Award at the National Park Protector Awards ceremony.
The event took place at the Houses of Parliament and was hosted by Terry Jermy MP.
Mr Heseltine was praised for connecting children with farm animals, soil, wildflowers, and the broader landscape of the Dales.
Derek Twine, Chair of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, said: "On behalf of the Authority, I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Neil and Leigh on this well-deserved national recognition.
£Through their work at Hill Top Farm, they are helping young people understand where food comes from, the importance of farming, and the special relationship between people and landscape that has shaped the Yorkshire Dales for generations.
"Neil has given many years of service to the National Park, including as Chair of the Authority and National Parks England, and continues to be a hugely valued Member.
"We are incredibly proud to see his passion for farming, education and the Yorkshire Dales recognised through this prestigious award."
The awards celebrate individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to national parks in England and Wales.
The ceremony also recognised the Ullswater Catchment Management CIC in the Lake District National Park as the runner-up for the Living Landscapes Award.
The group works with farmers and landowners to implement nature recovery and flood management projects.
The 2026 Marsh National Park Nature Award was given to Prosiect Torgoch, a conservation and engagement programme led by the North Wales Rivers Trust in Eryri National Park.
The programme aims to connect people with the Torgoch (Arctic charr) and encourage the long-term stewardship of Eryri's freshwater ecosystems.
The Exmoor Pioneers Project team in Exmoor National Park was the runner-up.
Gareth Davies, of See Cymru Differently (RNIB Cymru), won the New Perspectives Award for enhancing how visitors with sight loss engage with all Welsh national parks.
The Sheffield Environmental Movement in the Peak District National Park was the runner-up.
Robson Peisley, from the South Downs National Park, won the Young Changemaker of the Year Award.
Ms Peisley is the youngest national park authority member in the country.
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The North York Moors Youth Voice, a fully youth-led initiative, was the runner-up.
Yvonne Witter received a lifetime achievement award for her dedication to connecting people with the Peak District National Park.
The National Park Protector Awards, which have been held annually since 2011, recognise individuals and groups who contribute to the well-being of national parks.