A conservation team based just outside Brecon and an 11-year-old fundraiser from Pontardawe have been named winners at this year’s St David Awards.

The Cynrig Hatchery team picked up the Environment Champion Award at the national ceremony, held at the Senedd and hosted by First Minister Eluned Morgan.

The hatchery team, led by Dr John Taylor, Oliver Brown, Richard Davies and Haydn Probert of Natural Resources Wales, has been recognised for its work protecting and restoring some of Wales’ rarest wildlife. Based on the River Cynrig, the project focuses on species including water voles, freshwater pearl mussels, white-clawed crayfish and Arctic char.

Blending scientific research with hands-on daily care, the team has reared thousands of crayfish, reintroduced water voles into the wild and carried out Wales’ first freshwater pearl mussel reintroduction. Their work has also helped restore a rare population of Arctic char. The hatchery supports volunteers and shares its expertise to encourage the next generation of conservationists.

In the Young Person category, Cian Evans, 11, from Pontardawe, was also announced as a winner.

Cian survived a devastating crash on the M4 when he was two years old, which claimed the lives of his mother and unborn sister. Despite ongoing treatment for his injuries, he has channelled his experience into fundraising for others.

He recently completed the Welsh Three Peaks challenge, raising more than £10,000 for Harry’s Fund, and has also raised £2,700 for the Welsh Air Ambulance through a virtual 100km walking challenge.

Other winners on the night included Welsh entertainer Max Boyce MBE and footballer Jess Fishlock MBE, who were recognised for their contributions to culture and sport.

The St David Awards, now in their 13th year, recognise people across Wales who have made an outstanding contribution in fields including the environment, community work, sport and business.