The National Lottery spokesperson said the “game changers” were nominated by members of the public and selected by a panel.
They were chosen as examples of inspiring individuals who developed and delivered Lottery-funded projects to preserve heritage and enhance science and the environment.
The other “game changers” include Teresa Anderson MBE, director of Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement; Chantelle Lindsay, presenter, project officer with the London Wildlife Trust and advocate for diversity and inclusivity in wildlife; Sandy Bremner, convener for the National Parks Authority; Lisa Power MBE, LGBTQIA+ rights campaigner and Pride Cymru volunteer and Heidi McIlvenny, the former project leader for Ulster Wildlife’s Sea Deep initiative.
The artwork was unveiled by actor and broadcaster Sir Tony Robinson, who said he was “deeply honoured” to support the celebration of “these extraordinary people”.
Eilish McGuinness, CEO of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “The creation of a stunning Heritage Tree installation at Whitby Abbey honours seven of those extraordinary game changers and beautifully symbolises the deep roots and ever-growing impact of each, reflecting our shared ambition to strengthen heritage.”
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