Northampton ecologist says Blue Peter badge is 'highest recognition' for life's work

A Northampton ecologist says the Blue Peter badge he has received is now pride of place among the recognition he has ever had for his life's work.

Ecton Brook resident William Miller wrote to the BBC setting out how much it would mean to him to earn the iconic blue sails for himself.

And in a letter of reply, William got his wish - a cloth badge of his own and a salute from the internationally-renowned show's presenters.

Mr Miller told the Chronicle & Echo: "The BBC asked me how I felt about it, and I replied that I was the happiest and most fulfilled sixty nine and a half year old in the land.

"This may seem childish, but actually I love it. BBC Blue Peter is a very powerful logo, and it stands for innocence, honesty and worth-while endeavour, which applies as much to adults as it does to children."

In his career, the Northampton ecologist's achievements include his work as a consultant that overturned a £50million application by Coca Cola to build a drinks factory in Brackmills in 1990, stating effluent from the canning process would cause harm residents and the environment.

Other tasks have included clearing burnt out cars from Ecton Brook linear park, campaigning for a micro-nature reserve beside the A45, a representing the UK at the UN Food & Agriculture Organisation in Rome.

Professionally, his research also blocked a pollutant from being dumped in the River Mersey that was proven to send fish blind and helping set the standards for cadmium concentrations under EU law.

Mr Miller also appeared in the RSPB film "Avocets Return" while wardening the Havergate Island reserve in Suffolk and demonstrating a "fish ECG machine" on the BBC's 'Tomorrow's World'.

William said: "I'm very very proud of all I've done. I feel hugely humbled and rewarded."