24.06.25
A journey to celebrate wildlife protection efforts
Today, our CEO Sarah and I jumped on a train and headed up the country – to Cumbria, a huge expanse of northern beautifulness. It is predominantly a rural county that’s home to the largest national park in Britain, the Lake District.
This landscape supports a wide range of species, many of which are protected under the UK’s wildlife strategies through the Priority Delivery Groups.
Our visit was to surprise one of the extremely enthusiastic and resolute wildlife officers who looks after much of Cumbria’s wildlife. In fact, as a testament to her commitment, she also oversees the secretariat role of one of the national Priority Delivery Groups. I have had the pleasure of collaborating with her in the past, and now in my new role, I continue that working relationship.
The importance of recognising wildlife crime officers
Naturewatch Foundation believes in acknowledging individuals who go the extra mile to defend our country’s most vulnerable wildlife. So, today we were proud to award our first-ever Challenge Coin to a serving police officer.
Police Constable Sam O’Key is one of Cumbria’s dedicated wildlife officers whose exceptional work in tackling wildlife crime and protecting vulnerable animals has made a lasting impact in her force and local community.
What is the Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin?
The Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin is certainly not handed out lightly. It is reserved for those whose commitment, professionalism, and passion have made a real difference to wildlife protection.
The recipient of this award has shown unwavering dedication, working tirelessly to investigate and prevent crimes against animals – from illegal hunting and poaching to badger persecution and illegal puppy farming.
Sam has demonstrated true leadership in wildlife crime enforcement. Not only has she delivered robust investigations resulting in successful prosecutions, but she has also invested considerable time in raising awareness within Cumbria Police. They have collaborated with partner organisations, engaged with local communities, and supported national campaigns aimed at improving legislation and enforcement.
Policing wildlife crime requires specialist knowledge, strong determination, and a genuine care for animal welfare. Sam has consistently gone the extra mile, often beyond her core duties, to ensure animals have a voice. Her professionalism sets a high standard for wildlife crime enforcement across the UK.
Sam was unaware of our visit and our thanks must go to her line manager, Police Sergeant Amanda McKirdy, for orchestrating the “meeting” and making sure Sam was in the right place at the right time. It is the close connection between Naturewatch Foundation and the police that we hope shows our commitment to supporting police forces, encouraging training, and advocating for stronger wildlife protection laws.
Sam said, “Since taking on the role of Wildlife Coordinator for Cumbria Police in 2018, I have worked closely with Naturewatch Foundation to bring those that would harm our wildlife to justice.
Without the support of Naturewatch Foundation and other partner agencies who work tirelessly to identify these individuals, we would not be able to disrupt their illegal activities in the way that we do.
Receiving this challenge coin as recognition of the work I have been doing was not only unexpected, but quite overwhelming. Thank you to the Naturewatch Foundation team for your support and this recognition.”
Wildlife crime in the UK: Why it matters
By presenting this Challenge Coin, we hope to spotlight the vital role that police wildlife crime officers play in defending animals and protecting biodiversity.
It is important to remember that wildlife crime is not a niche issue; it is an integral part of environmental protection, public interest, and justice.
We hope this recognition inspires Sam’s peers to pursue this important work with the same passion and determination. Wildlife crime, by its very nature (due to certain offences not having Home Office recording status and being significantly under-resourced) is a hard nut to crack. However, thanks to committed individuals like Sam, real progress is being made.
The Challenge Coin is a small token of our immense gratitude and it was a real pleasure to award Sam our first.
Join us in protecting wildlife across the UK
You don’t have to be a police officer to help end wildlife crime in the UK. Did you know that you make a difference too? Find out how.
Jim Clark – Campaign Manager, Wildlife Crime
MAIN PHOTO: L-R: PSCO Karen Dakin; PC Rich Kemp; PC Stefan Blaga; Police Sergeant Amanda McKirdy (rural crime team supervisor); PC Sam O’Key; Sarah Carr (CEO, Naturewatch Foundation); Jim Clark (wildlife crime campaign manager, Naturewatch Foundation); Superintendent Matt Pearman (Operational Police Command)
