Thetford Bird Man scoops national award

01 Nov 2014 | No. 2014-66

A Thetford-based charity was in the limelight last week as one of its staff members scooped a prestigious award for his excellent work in charity communications. Paul Stancliffe, Media Manager at the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), received CharityComms’ Inspiring Communicators Award at a ceremony in London on 20th November. This award recognises and celebrates people who are inspirational communicators within or for their organisations, much like an OBE for services to charity communications. Winners are people who demonstrate professionalism, expertise and – above all – inspiration in their use of communications for a cause or charity.

Paul started his working career as an electrical engineer, but his lifelong fascination with birds led him to fulfil his passion for nature in a professional capacity at the UK’s largest bird research charity. Dr Ieuan Evans, BTO’s Associate Director of Communications said “Paul is a priceless asset to the BTO. He has an uncanny ability to put people at ease, whether they are staff, volunteers, celebrities, journalists or members of the public. His immense knowledge and supreme talent for communication earns their respect. You can’t help but feel inspired when Paul talks to you.”

Previous award winners include Henny Braund - Chief Executive of the Antony Nolan Trust, Carolan Davidge - Director of Communications at Cancer Research UK and Laila Takeh - Head of Digital Engagement at UNICEF UK. Paul received his award from CharityComms Trustee, John Grounds, at a celebration at the Free Word Centre in London.

Vicky Browning, Director of CharityComms, said “CharityComms' Inspiring Communicator Awards recognise and celebrate people who are inspirational communicators within charities. Paul Stancliffe, Media Manager of the British Trust for Ornithology, is a talented and knowledgeable communicator and a tireless champion of the Trust's work. Completely unstoppable, never off duty, living and breathing his work, Paul’s fascination with birds is infectious – and inspiring."

In addition to his work with the BTO, Paul is passionate about helping young people achieve their potential and runs a regular after-school allotment club. He also spent 11 years campaigning for a skate park in Thetford, for which the council recently approved planning permission.

Notes for Editors

1. The BTO is the UK's leading bird research charity. A growing membership and up to 60,000 volunteer birdwatchers contribute to the BTO's surveys, collecting information that underpins conservation action in the UK. The BTO maintains a staff of 100 at its offices in Thetford, Stirling, Bangor (Wales) and Bangor (Northern Ireland), who analyse and publicise the results of surveys and projects. The BTO's work is funded by BTO supporters, government, trusts, industry and conservation organisations. www.bto.org

Contact Details

Dr Ieuan Evans
(BTO Associate Director of Communications)

Office: 01842 750050
(9am to 5.30pm)
Email: ieuan.evans [at] bto.org

Paul Stancliffe
(BTO Media Manager)

Office: 01842 750050
(9am to 5.30pm)
Mobile: 07585 440910 (anytime)
Email: press [at] bto.org

Images are available for use alongside this News Release.
Please contact images [at] bto.org quoting reference 2014-66

The BTO has an ISDN line available for radio interviews.
Please contact us to book an interview
Office: 01842 750050


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