A POLICE inspector, who persuaded bosses to let him set up his own crime unit, is set to receive special recognition at the 2019 Animal Hero Awards.

Police Inspector Kevin Kelly, who set up a unit to tackle the most horrific of animal-related crimes at North Yorkshire Police, will receive a special recognition award at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London tonight.

The 38-year-old from Harrogate previously persuaded force bosses to set up a Wildlife Team in a bid to tackle instances of foxhunting, badger baiting, raptor persecution and bat disturbance across the region.

Insp Kelly will receive the award in recognition of his commitment to the protection of wildlife animals.

The Northern Echo:

In 2017, he was named Wildlife Law Enforcer of the Year at the Wildlife Crime Conference for his work in tackling rural crime across the county.

While earlier this year, Insp Kelly was given an RSPCA honour for wildlife for his enthusiasm in solving ‘horrific’ wildlife crimes.

At the time, RSPCA National Wildlife Officer Coordinator, Geoff Edmond said: “Sgt Kelly has led investigations into cock-fighting, badger digging and baiting, and the illegal pursuit of hares, helping to give many animals a better life.

“He has been pivotal in developing training and new investigation techniques to increase the number of people being caught committing these horrific crimes.

“He is passionately committed to dealing with animal welfare issues and works countless hours over and above his everyday work.”

The 2019 Animal Hero Awards are being hosted by TV presenter Steve Backshall and Insp Kelly is expected to collect his award in front of some of Britain’s most well-known names.

At this year’s event, Paul O’Grady, Helen Worth, Ross Kemp, Maura Higgins, Jessica Wright, Martin and Shirley Kemp, Richard Hammond, Jake Wood, Angela Rippon, Arlene Phillips, Ferne McCann, Ben Fogle and Adil Ray are just some expected to attend.

Speaking about the awards, Mr Backshall said: “Helping to choose the winners on the judging panel was so tough – everyone on the shortlist deserved an award. The winners are the most incredible people and animals, and they have all done such amazing things. Their stories blew us away, and now I can’t wait to meet them.”