Yolande Watson – 2025 Volunteer Awards

Yolande is passionate about Dark Skies and the issue of light pollution. Yolande works with Parish Councils to create local dark skies groups and influence policy.

Yolande and her volunteers work in close partnership with Visit Herefordshire, the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust and the Wye Adapt to Climate Change Project, to protect and promote Herefordshire’s dark skies; while raising awareness about the harmful effects of light pollution.

It is due to Yolande’s hard work and dedication that the CPRE Herefordshire Dark Skies Project won the Dark Skies International Bob Gent Community Leadership award—the first Dark Sky International award received within the UK.

‘The Dark Sky International Awards Committee recognises your remarkable efforts in addressing light pollution through citizen science, volunteer engagement and influencing local policy. Your collaboration with parish councils and local businesses to promote Herefordshire’s dark skies is truly exemplary.’