Outstanding work to preserve precious heathland following a devastating fire, has been marked by a Poole community safety award.

One third of Upton Heath was destroyed in a savage blaze in the summer of 2011 and Dorset Wildlife Trust worked hard to rescue wildlife and preserve Poole’s natural environment.

The efforts of staff and volunteers have been rewarded by a certificate of commendation in the John Jay awards, presented by the Safer Poole Partnership to celebrate those who go out of the their way to make the borough a safer place.

Following the blaze that destroyed a third of the nationally important nature reserve, the trust co-ordinated a huge community effort to rescue surviving reptiles and set up a public appeal which raised over £50,000 to restore the heath and prevent such a disaster happening again.

With the support of local residents a HeathWatch scheme was launched with local people walking the heath to act as extra eyes and ears for wardens.

More than 60 people have joined HeathWatch so far, reporting fires and enabling police to prevent damage to the vulnerable and rare habitat.

“This is one example of the excellent work that our teams are doing in communities across the county,” said Steve Davis, the trust’s volunteering manager.

“It is really heartening to gain such recognition for that work not just for the staff of Dorset Wildlife Trust but also for our dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers.

“The fire and its aftermath was a very difficult time for all of us, and it was the rallying of the local community and our volunteers that helped us through it, enabling us to develop projects such as HeathWatch to provide additional protection measures for the area.”

Andy Fale, the trust’s restoration project officer said: “Ever since the fire we have had fantastic support from local volunteers, who are determined to help protect Upton Heath and its wildlife. We are very proud to accept this certificate on behalf of all the volunteers.”

The trust was nominated by Mary Flynn from Springbourne who said: “Every single member of the Dorset Wildlife Team gives more than 100 per cent to their role. Nothing is too much trouble and the community is a much richer place for man and animal alike.”