A CHRISTCHURCH man who dedicates himself to nature has received a meritorious award.

Gilbert Hough has not only worked to transform the gardens at St John’s Church in Purewell but also runs the Green Team, a group of volunteers working alongside the council’s countryside service to maintain the ditches and natural habitats of reserves in Christchurch.

Mr Hough has worked for more than ten years at the church, not only making the garden more attractive but also overseeing the collection of funds to reroof and redecorate the building.

His work with the Green Team at Stanpit Marsh and Purewell Meadows means that the ancient ditches are kept clean and clear so that streams are allowed to flow.

The volunteers also oversee the maintenance of the ancient reed beds which are a key element of the natural habitat of many flora and fauna.

While Gilbert may have won the individual award, the group award went to the independent members of the council’s standards committee.

Maurice O’Connell, Patricia Rushton, Ian Sibley and Bob Mackinnon were members of the committee.