This week is a special one. For months, I’ve been quietly immersed in an endeavour that feels incredibly close to my heart, and today, I’m overjoyed to finally share it with you. The Forest of Bowland Champion Species pin badges are officially here!

Seeing the full collection of fourteen badges, all nestled in their colourful backing cards, feels like watching a flock of starlings take flight. It’s the culmination of a journey, that for me personally, has genuinely shifted my mindset about nature conservation.

When I was first invited by the Forest of Bowland National Landscape team to take part, I had no idea what a wonderful and transformative undertaking it would become.

The initial concept was to create something beautiful and tangible that could connect people to fourteen of the area’s most rare, threatened, and precious species. These collectible pieces, each championing a species, would in turn raise vital funds for conservation through the Champion Bowland small grants fund. 

My role was to design the series of fourteen collectable enamel pin badges. To do something to make a positive impact and statement.

Before I could even think about a final design, it was crucial to simply spend time with each species. My sketchbook became my window into their world. I pored over reference photos, studied their forms, and tried to capture their unique character. 

I wanted to understand the intricate patterns of a Brown Trout, the delicate, almost translucent form of the Ballerina Waxcap, and the ethereal spirit of a Hen Harrier. This deep dive wasn’t just about anatomical accuracy; it was about trying to find and capture the essence of each one.

From my traditional watercolour and pencil studies, the next challenge emerged: how do you distil those characteristics into a tiny, wearable piece of art? Each illustration was carefully redrawn digitally, simplifying the forms while aiming to retain all the character.

Just as important as the badges themselves, were the backing cards. They needed to be the perfect frame, making the brass of the badges shine and the colours pop. A whole new design phase began, exploring colour theory and typography to create a vibrant, cohesive set that felt both modern and timeless.

One of the proudest aspects of this entire initiative for me is its integrity. From the very beginning, the team was committed to ensuring these badges were made in the UK and from sustainable, recycled materials. It felt essential that the process of creating them honoured the very nature they are meant to celebrate.

My greatest wish now is that these little badges become more than just objects. I want them to become tiny ambassadors for the species they represent. I see them as little talking points, sparking curiosity and encouraging conversations about Bowland’s incredible biodiversity.

Each badge is a small part of a much larger story about conservation, passion, and optimism. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of this work.

How to Get Your Badges

The badges are just beginning their journey out into the world.

• In Person: Initially, they will be available for purchase at upcoming Forest of Bowland landscape events. Keep an eye on their social media and website for details!

• Online Launch: An online shop will be launching later this month.

• Pre-Order Now: If you can’t wait, you can visit the official Champion Species page to pre-order your badges right now

Thank you for following along with this journey. I truly cannot wait to see these little champions out in the world, finding new homes and starting new conversations.