A PRINCETOWN horse lover has been name as the International Fund for Animal Welfare?s Campaigner of the Year.
Maureen Rolls, the founder and chairman of the South West Equine Protection Society, was awarded the accolade at a glittering ceremony at the House of Lords recently.
Maureen, who runs a sanctuary for moorland ponies on Dartmoor, was one of just eight UK award winners during the IFAW?s Animal Action Week.
Phyllis Campbell-McRae, IFAW UK director, said Maureen had done a ?wonderful job for the animals? and was ?a shining example to all of us?.
?She thoroughly deserves this award,? she said.
The ceremony was held in the Attlee Room and was hosted by Baroness Gale.
Cornwall County Council chairman Phil Tregunna, who nominated Maureen for the award, said she was tireless and fearless in tackling the animal welfare problems of ponies on Bodmin Moor, Dartmoor and elsewhere, rescuing many animals each year.
?Her practical approach has included such successes as getting the speed limits on Dartmoor reduced to 40mph. She also works with Trading Standards at local equine markets to ensure vigilance against cruelty,? Mr Tregunna said.
Maureen said she was completely ?absolutely amazed? by the award.
?Apparently several people put me forward and I was chosen from hundreds of applicants. I?m actually more than amazed, as it was international awards.?
Maureen added that the day in London had been ?fantastic?.
?In the type of work I do I don?t get to get away that often, so I made the most of it!? she said.