A council leader has been recognised for her dedication to animal welfare.

Councillor Kerrie Carmichael of Sandwell Council, received the first Massingham Advocacy Award at the RSPCA PawPrints Awards.

The award honours her efforts in promoting animal welfare, following the council's recent move to form an Animal Welfare Taskforce.

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This taskforce plans to collaborate with various organisations to safeguard nature, habitats, and prevent cruelty to both domestic and wild animals.

The newly introduced award, celebrating the RSPCA's 200th anniversary and the centenary of its Public Affairs team, is named after Gertrude Speedwell Massingham, a trailblazer in animal welfare advocacy.

It praises elected officials who have shown a strong commitment to animal welfare.

Cllr Carmichael was recognised for her role in the council adopting an Animal Welfare Charter and her support of the RSPCA's 2024 Local Government Animal Welfare Manifesto.

Lee Gingell, the RSPCA's public affairs manager for local government, said: "We are delighted to recognise Councillor Kerrie Carmichael's outstanding commitment to animal welfare with the Massingham Advocacy PawPrints Award.

"This is a particularly poignant award, given during our 200th anniversary year and named after the RSPCA's first ever public affairs staff member, who was advocating for animals one century ago."

Cllr Carmichael said: "I am incredibly happy to receive this recognition from the RSPCA, honouring my commitment to championing animal welfare and inspiring positive change.

"I am truly proud that this award reflects not just my commitment but also that of our council and our borough to being at the forefront of animal welfare."

This year the council also launched a new Welfare Charter to protect wildlife and pets across the borough.

The charter, inspired by the RSPCA's charter, outlines principles and guidelines to safeguard animals and their rights.