The Prime Minister this week recognised John O’Connor, from Martletwy, for protecting marine habitats in Pembrokeshire.

John is the creator of a pioneering app which improves the protection of local coastlines and reduces the devastating impact of marine litter caused by lost or discarded fishing tackle.

John, an experienced fisherman for over 50 years, has seen firsthand the damage caused to marine habitats and wildlife by fishing litter, which can take up to 600 years to decompose.

He has used his expertise to develop the ‘Pembrokeshire Marine Code App’, which features a code of conduct for local and visiting anglers and shares information to help avoid the loss of fishing tackle.

He works closely with the voluntary divers group, ‘Neptune’s Army of Rubbish Cleaners’, led by Dave Kennard who was awarded a ‘Points of Light’ in June this year, to produce information on the seabed and provide tackle litter bins at popular fishing locations.

John is the latest recipient of the ‘Points of Light’ award, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others.

Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements. John will receive his award from his local MP, Simon Hart.

In a personal letter to John, Prime Minister Theresa May said: “The Pembrokeshire Marine Code app is sharing important advice on how to conserve the area’s protected coasts by avoiding fishing litter. You are making a vital contribution to reducing the damage of fishing equipment on our marine environment."

Simon Hart, MP for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, said: “This is really important recognition for a brilliant idea. John has been ahead of the game for years in recognising the risks posed by marine pollution but has actually taken action – successfully. He is an example to the rest of us.”

John remarked: “I’m gobsmacked, totally out of the blue!

“One doesn’t volunteer to get recognition but it is nice when it occurs. It’s great to see ones advice and tips about things one is passionate about being taken seriously.

“Hopefully, this sort of recognition can inspire others to volunteer and get involved in whatever sphere they choose, but it would be great to get more angling volunteers, especially in Wales and Pembrokeshire.”

John is the 1016th winner of the ‘Points of Light’ award, which has been developed in partnership with the hugely successful Points of Light programme in the USA.

Over 6,000 Points of Light have been awarded in the USA, and former Presidents have publicly supported the partnership with Points of Light UK.

There is a similar cross-party approach to the UK programme and MPs from different parties often present their constituents with their Points of Light awards.

Regardless of whether it’s a doctor restoring local monuments in her free time, a father teaching young people life skills, or a local musician giving a voice to lonely people, the Points of Light award honours shining examples of volunteering across the UK.