Warminster teen recognised for wildlife and conservation work

A teenager from Warminster has been recognised for his dedication to nature conservation and volunteer work with local wildlife.

Dexter Painter-Coates, a 14-year-old Warminster Journal deliverer, received the Young Volunteer of the Year award at the recent Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Volunteer Awards. He was presented with the award by Martin Nye, the High Sheriff of Wiltshire.

Dexter is passionate about nature and conservation and volunteers with the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust at Green Lane Wood in Trowbridge. He has also completed work experience at Langford Lakes Nature Reserve, is the Mouse and Shrew Champion in the Wiltshire Mammal Group, the Youth Ambassador for the Warminster Toad Patrol, and an active member of Sustainable Warminster.

“It was a complete surprise to win the award,” said Dexter. “I had no idea that I had even been nominated. I just love being able to get out and get involved, actually making a difference to our local wildlife.”

Throughout the year, Dexter has created information leaflets for his neighbours, teaching them about the importance of helping hedgehogs, and encouraged young people to take an interest in conservation through videos on social media.

“I think it’s really important for young people to learn about wildlife and do their bit for conservation, as it’s all about the world we live in. Volunteering isn’t just about doing the work, it’s also about inspiring others to join in, and that’s something I am really passionate about,” said Dexter.

“It’s so good to get outside and explore the natural world. There are so many amazing things to discover all around us, and it makes me sad that so many people miss so much simply because no one’s ever shown them how cool it is. I love to share the work I am doing and the experiences I have with the world in the hope I can inspire someone else to become a young conservationist like me.

“I am so thankful to the trust for giving me so many amazing opportunities to get involved. Every experience I have had with them has been fantastic. I have learnt so much and met so many incredible people who have been so generous with their time to help create these opportunities and show me the ropes.

“It was amazing to not only be recognised individually but also as part of our youth group, Rangers, for our work at Green Lane Woods. I’m so grateful for my friend Isabel introducing me to the group. It’s great to spend time with other young nature lovers, getting our hands dirty and having fun.”

Dexter’s mum, Ria, said, “Ever since he could show an interest in something, it was nature.

“Over the years he has developed his interest and become more focused on native wildlife. A couple of years ago he started talking about wanting to work in conservation when he’s older. He wanted to be able to get involved and start doing his bit. So, I spent some time looking for opportunities for him to join in with. He’s probably been volunteering in various ways for a bit over a year now, and just absolutely loves it.

“He’s always been the kid outside in the mud, climbing trees and exploring, so it’s felt like a natural progression from that.”