A wildlife conservation team near Brecon and an 11-year-old fundraiser from Pontardawe are among the finalists for this year’s St David Awards, which celebrate the achievements of people across Wales.

The Cynrig Hatchery team, based just a few miles from Brecon on the River Cynrig, has been shortlisted in the Environment Champion category. Led by Dr John Taylor, Oliver Brown, Richard Davies, and Haydn Probert of Natural Resources Wales, the hatchery works to protect some of Wales’ rarest species, including water voles, freshwater pearl mussels, white-clawed crayfish, and Arctic Char.

The team’s work combines scientific expertise with day-to-day hands-on care. They feed and clean seven days a week, develop sustainable breeding methods, and innovate solutions such as hydroponic vegetable growing for water voles. Their efforts have already reared more than 7,000 crayfish, reintroduced 10,000 water voles, carried out Wales’ first freshwater pearl mussel reintroduction, helped restore a rare population of Arctic Char, and run cutting-edge salmon tracking environmental impact trials.

The hatchery also plays a wider role in the community, sharing expertise with volunteers and nurturing the next generation of conservationists.

Meanwhile, Cian Evans from Pontardawe has been nominated in the Young Person category. Cian, now 11, survived a devastating car accident on the M4 when he was two, which claimed the lives of his mother and unborn sister. Despite severe injuries and ongoing treatment, he has turned personal tragedy into a mission to help others.

Cian recently completed the Welsh Three Peaks challenge, raising over £10,000 for Harrys Fund, which supports children and families affected by trauma. He has also raised £2,700 for the Welsh Air Ambulance through a virtual 100km walking challenge.

The St David Awards, now in their 13th year, recognise people who make a significant impact in areas including business, sport, culture, innovation, and public service. There is also the First Minister’s Special Award, which could reflect collective as well as individual achievements.

The finalists in each category are selected by an independent panel. Winners are chosen by the First Minister, with the ceremony taking place at the Senedd on Thursday, February 26.

All winners will receive a St David Awards trophy, designed and made by ceramicist Daniel Boyle, based in Lampeter.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “It’s a privilege to announce the finalists of the St David Awards. It brings together the best of Wales, with fantastic examples of the positive contribution people can make to other people’s lives. We have an incredible list this year, full of inspirational stories and impressive achievements.”

This year’s list of finalists includes household names as well as unsung heroes. Actor Luke Evans and musician Max Boyce are nominated in the Culture category, while Olympic boxing champion Lauren Price MBE and footballer Jess Fishlock MBE feature in the Sport category. In Public Service, notable figures include Dr Tipswalo Day, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, and headteacher Innes Robinson.

The full list of finalists can be viewed at: www.gov.wales/st-david-awards/2026-awards