Young angler, scientist and environmentalist shortlisted for prestigious marine award

Hannah Rudd, the Angling Trust’s Marine Policy and Advocacy Manager, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Ocean & Coastal Futures Bob Earll Award, celebrating professionals under the age of 30 making a significant contribution in marine and coastal communities.

A delighted Hannah said: “In a nature and climate emergency there has never been a more important time to pull together for our seas and we need visibility and inclusion of all stakeholders to do that. I’m proud to stand tall with my fellow nominees, colleagues, partners and recreational angling communities around the country who are working hard to create a better future for coastal communities, our fisheries and our coastal wildlife.

“Fishing is an activity that is open and accessible to all, the Bob Earll award celebrates the promotion of diversity and inclusion within the marine environment and I am extremely proud to be able to promote fishing as a healthy, sustainable and enjoyable activity that is open for all.”

Angling Trust Head of Campaigns Stuart Singleton-White welcomed this recognition. He said: “Since joining the Angling Trust, Hannah has made a massive difference in both policy and through the innovative and groundbreaking use of citizen science. She has taken the care that sea anglers show for the marine environment and, through her passion, turned that care into action, impact and recognition.

“Whether that is in ensuring recreational sea angling is properly considered when it comes to fisheries management and policy decision at the highest level, or in bringing anglers and scientist together with the common goal of understanding our marine fish species better and acting to protect them, the leadership Hannah has shown in protecting our marine environment, promoting recreational sea angling and developing networks to drive positive change is making a significant difference.”

Angling Trust and Fish Legal CEO Jamie Cook said: “I am delighted for Hannah personally and for the wider community she and the team work so hard to represent. This nomination is testament to the impact Hannah is having on behalf of recreational sea anglers, who have historically struggled for recognition in marine policy matters. Hannah’s shortlisting is an indication of how much that situation is changing and how recreational sea anglers are now being given the representation they need and recognition they deserve.

“Our We Fish As One campaign celebrates the diversity of angling in all forms and I can’t think of a better ambassador to promote the opportunities for women and girls in fisheries and the environment than Hannah.”

Alongside her work at the Angling Trust Hannah Rudd is a published author and marine scientist. She is co-founder of Shark Hub UK and a member of the Women in Fisheries network. Nominees are assessed on their dedication to ocean and coastal management, demonstration of significant impact through government/policy; bringing people together to achieve a collective goal towards sustainability; leadership through practice and professional development; and empowering others from diverse backgrounds. The winner will be announced in January 2025.

For more information on the work the Angling Trust do for recreational sea anglers click here to view our recent news items.