Congratulations Ani Binet, bat conservationist and winner of the 2016 Pride of Jersey Environmentalist of Year Award sponsored by Jersey Electricity. Ani was presented with her award and prize of a Bat Logger at the Jersey Evening Post Pride Awards ceremony, hosted by Graeme Le Saux and Nerina Pallot, in the wonderful surroundings of the grounds of Government House. She was joined by the two other finalists, Richard Perchard and Gracie Davies. A thrilled Ani said afterwards: ‘I really didn’t expect to win. I thought it would go to Richard but I’m delighted and the prize is exactly what we needed. If anyone thinks they have bats roosting in their home, please get in touch!’
Ani set up Annyctalus Ecology in 2013, a non-profit organisation that aims to increase knowledge about Jersey bat species and ensure their best protection. She has been the driving force in the study and preservation of bats in the Channel Islands for over 10 years and has brought Jersey in line with international standards on the subject.
In presenting the award, Jersey Electricity CEO Chris Ambler said: ‘We are especially pleased to sponsor this particular award because as the Island’s leading energy provider we have a significant part to play in protecting the environment but as all our worthy nominees and finalists show, you don’t have to be a big corporation with big pockets to make a difference. They deserve all our thanks. I’d also like to thank those people who nominated them and everyone who voted; it’s what makes these special awards such a wonderful community event.’
After the ceremony, Ani joined the other 11 category award winners and their guests for a once-in-lifetime lunch hosted by Lieutenant-Governor, General Sir John McColl and Lady McColl, prepared by Michelin-starred Shaun Rankin of Ormer, the AA red five-star Longueville Manor’s Andrew Baird and Government House’s head chef, David Inwood and served inside Government House at the same table used by countless royal visitors over decades.
