2026 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Norfolk Churches Trust, and the 100th anniversary of Norfolk Wildlife Trust. As part of these celebrations, we're partnering with Norfolk Churches Trust and the Diocese of Norwich, to launch the new Churchyard Conservation Award.
Churchyards are among the county’s most precious landscapes untouched by modern practices where traditional flora and fauna still exist, providing places of peace, beauty, biodiversity and memory. Through this award, the Norfolk Churches Trust aims to celebrate the essential, often unsung, work being done by volunteers and parishes to protect and enhance these unique spaces for future generations.
This new award is open to all churches across Norfolk, regardless of denomination. It will recognise excellence in areas such as wildlife conservation, sensitive maintenance, community engagement and the preservation of heritage features.
Rosabelle Batt, Chair of the Norfolk Churches Trust, said: “Since 1930, England has lost an astonishing 97% of its wildflower meadows. Yet within our churchyards, many of these rare plants and species survive, protected from pesticides. These spaces are living time capsules, havens of biodiversity and memory and their preservation has never been more important. Through this award, we want to recognise the extraordinary value of churchyards as sanctuaries for nature, history and community and to celebrate those who care for them.”
Lucy Seely, our Wilder Communities Officer, added: ‘This is a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate all that our churches are doing to support wildlife in Norfolk. Churchyards are often the last remnant of ancient, undisturbed grassland in many parishes, and we have been running the Churchyard Conservation Scheme alongside the Diocese of Norwich for over 40 years in recognition of their importance for wildlife.
‘Churchyards support wildflowers, ferns and lichens that are rarely found in the wider Norfolk countryside. Our churchyards can also be quiet havens for birds, insects, amphibians and mammals, and are important as green stepping stones for wildlife in the county.’
The winning entry will receive a commemorative plaque and a grant of £1000 to support further conservation work. Runners-up will also be recognised for their contributions.
Applications are now open, with a closing date of 28 February 2026, judging takes place in May and the winner will be announced at a special event in Autumn. For details on how to apply, visit Norfolk Churches Trust website.