Conservation hero: Janet Unitt

NATURE-LOVER Janet Unitt has been nominated for the Butterfield-sponsored Conservation Hero of the Year award for her dedication in preserving the environment, and for caring for animals and humans.

Nominator Lisa Vahey said Ms Unitt loves animals of any kind, and has a list of pets, considered family, a mile long.

‘She has often taken in strays when vets or the shelters are unable to home them. She takes care of injured rodents and other small animals when she can in her “animal hospital” - even taking in the occasional turkey near Christmas time.’

For years she has given her time at the GSPCA.

Additionally she is a keen beachcomber who removes any litter she comes across.

‘She does beachcombing on a very regular basis, pretty much daily, cleaning up the rubbish that others leave behind on our coastline, and has also recycled some finds to make little works of art.’

Oiled birds have been rescued in the past when found as she is an experienced bird handler.

Charity beach cleans are undertaken alongside the 30 Bays in 30 Days event, where Janet picks litter from all listed Bailiwick beaches.

In 2017 she joined St John as a volunteer and became qualified as a first-aider to give even more back to the community.

‘More recently, she joined St John Ambulance volunteers and since training has done many duties, including helping out during the Covid-19 lockdown. Basically she cares for our environment and others more than anyone else I know. She has a heart of gold and deserves this award.’