Moray campaigner named Green Hero for tireless efforts
A Moray environmentalist has praised the public’s support for his work as “quite amazing” after an award win.
Forres campaigner Allan Gray said it was “really humbling” to be named Green Hero of the Year at the 2025 Moray and Banffshire Heroes awards.
The award, sponsored by the Springfield Group, recognised his work through national environmental NGO Zero Hour pushing the UK Government to pass the “science-led” Climate and Nature Bill.
Working alongside local councillor Draeyk van der Horn, Allan helped Moray Council become the first Scottish local authority to back the bill.
After he was revealed as the winner, the environmentalist praised the efforts of the other shortlisted entrants.
Two other dedicated community figures were also shortlisted for the Green Hero of the Year award.
Phil Mills was nominated as Green Hero for his work through social enterprise Moray Waste Busters, which has prevented countless tonnes of objects from going to landfill.
Also featured on the shortlist was Nick Molnar, the founder of Forres Friends of Woods and fields.
“I'm a little bit shaky, as I said, but it's really humbling to receive it,” he said.
“And I'm a little bit shocked, because I know the other nominees.
“I really was just sitting back when it was being announced thinking: ‘Nick and Phil will win it, because everyone knows them.’”
Allan also works with north east residents in support of campaigns to decarbonise transport, deliver climate action and expand active travel.
The environmentalist added that the level of public support for his work had taken him by surprise.
“You don't realize that people know what you're doing,” Allan said.
“You just think: ‘My inner circle know I do it, but you think no one else is paying attention.’
“When it comes to green and environmental issues, you always sort of feel like people maybe sort of get it.
“But seeing that people actually, you know, voted for it? Yeah, it's quite amazing.”
