Famous botanist David Bellamy, declared Gurnard Pines Resort, Conference and Leisure Club to be "a green flag waver" for businesses on the Isle of Wight - presenting it with the David Bellamy Conservation Gold Award.
Set in 55 acres of wooded countryside, Gurnard Pines' commitment to environmental care is evident across a wide range of initiatives taken by the park.
He praised the steps taken to help protect the rich diversity of wildlife in the grounds plus many species of indigenous trees and shrubs which provide valuable food and breeding resources for birds and animals. The park has increased the number of wildlife habitats, and protects the wide range of wild flowers which attract many common and less familiar butterfly species.
David Bellamy commended the park's close links with the local community and the support and sponsorship it provides for a variety of charities based on the Island.
Gurnard Pines’ award was made following an independent audit of the park’s environmental policies, prompting a big celebration at the park, says sales and marketing manager Kevin Darvill:
"Everyone on the team plays a part in putting our various green initiatives into action. But we've still plenty of other plans. We hope to become much more reliant on solar energy and to introduce new methods of recycling water," added Kevin.
David Bellamy said that the park was making a major contribution to the Isle of Wight's ambition to become recognised having the lowest carbon footprint in England by 2020.