Meet your 2024 BMC Volunteer Award winners

The awards recognise the extraordinary individuals whose voluntary contributions elevate hill walking, climbing, and mountaineering across England and Wales. This year, we are proud to present three exceptional individuals with awards in two categories: the Rehan Siddiqui Award for promoting equality and diversity, and the Lord Greaves Award for contributions to access and conservation.

What are the BMC Volunteer awards?

The BMC Awards acknowledge the hard work and commitment that goes into making our community great. Whether it’s a dedicated volunteer, an innovative club lead, an exceptional athlete, or a ground-breaking initiative, we aim to shine a spotlight on those who elevate hill walking, climbing and mountaineering in the UK. This year we have selected three individuals for two categories:

THE REHAN SIDDIQUI AWARD(S)

For Exceptional Voluntary Contribution towards promoting Equality and Diversity in the BMC, recognising those who have made a significant voluntary contribution to the BMC’s commitment to increasing opportunities for under-represented groups to participate in climbing, hill walking or mountaineering and the work of the BMC.

THE LORD GREAVES AWARD

Award for Voluntary Contribution to BMC Access and Conservation work, to recognise volunteers who work tirelessly to promote access to and protection for the countryside we all love

Jay has been a driving force behind the development of Paraclimbing, dedicating countless hours as a volunteer coach to promote equal access to performance opportunities. He has travelled extensively, both across the country and internationally, offering his coaching free of charge to support Paraclimbers. His commitment has not only helped athletes but has also inspired other volunteers to get involved in the sport.

Through his tireless efforts, Jay has transformed how Paraclimbers view themselves and how they are perceived by others. They are now recognised as high-performance athletes, treated with the respect and consideration they deserve. His exceptional knowledge and inspirational coaching have played a pivotal role in the sport's growth, and Paraclimbers are deeply grateful for his dedication and his passion for creating equality in access to climbing opportunities.

Rose has led numerous BMC walks, increasing access to hill walking and encouraging greater female participation. Her leadership has helped break down barriers, with many of the walks seeing more women attendees than men.

Using her social media influence, Rose has promoted a diverse and inclusive image of the BMC to a wider audience. She has represented the organisation at events, on podcasts, and in videos, contributing to a more positive and diverse external image. As a Mountain Leader (in a field where fewer than 30% are women), she has inspired others to pursue outdoor leadership roles.

Rose has combined her expertise as a Mountain Leader and mental health nurse to lead walks for those facing mental health challenges through BMC partner Blackdog Outdoors. She also raised around £1,000 for the Mend Our Mountains campaign through her social hikes. As a valuable member of the BMC's Members’ Council and Hill Walking Group, Rose brings a younger, female perspective to traditionally male-dominated discussions.

Steve Charles developed and led a variety of conservation volunteering opportunities in the uplands, with minimal support from BMC staff. His initiatives included sphagnum planting for BMC’s The Climate project, removing invasive species, clearing drainage, and repairing footpaths as part of the Mend Our Mountains campaign.

He spearheaded the successful "Mend Our Mountains Get Stuck In!" programme, which focused on restoring and protecting upland areas. Steve engaged a diverse group of volunteers, including non-members, helping to grow the BMC community. His efforts also strengthened relationships with key partners like the National Trust and Moors for the Future.

Steve's contributions have enhanced the BMC's reputation and expanded its reach into new areas. He continues to recruit volunteers and extend the initiative across more regions, making a lasting impact on the community and aligning with the BMC’s core mission.

How were they chosen?

This is a culmination of public nominations, council members, and patrons etc voting. Our panel members this year were:

• Sean Milner (Chair) – Deputy President
• Lynn Robinson, Former President
• Mick Fowler, BMC Patron
• Robert Dufton, Former Recipient
• Mohammed Dhalech, Chair of EDI Committee

Our dedicated and passionate network of hundreds of volunteers are the lifeblood of the BMC.

We have a vast range of volunteers:

• Local levels
  • Focussed on local activities and action, areas meetings etc
• BMC committees
  • With relevant skills, experience or expertise, supporting the work of the BMC by contributing to strategic direction and offering their advice and knowledge on certain matters – access groups, club committees, technical committees etc
• Members council
  • Those who act as a representative body of the members, consulting with and constructively challenging the board of directors.
• Board members