Nature-loving Northallerton teen hopes to inspire young people

Maxwell Alderson said he found solace in nature

A North Yorkshire teenager has helped create a nature film to encourage other young people to protect wildlife.

Maxwell Alderson "found solace in nature" after the death of his older sister Gaby seven years ago.

He began going for walks and searching for insects, which the Northallerton 16-year-old said allowed him to "escape to another world".

Now, the teenager hopes to share his passion with others and inspire others to make a positive change.

"It's calming, entertaining and just absolutely beautiful," Maxwell told BBC Radio York about his interest.

"I developed a really close connection to insects. I just love their diversity and the fact that they are often overlooked."

Maxwell's sister died aged 14, after battling neuroblastoma for three-and-a-half years.

Mum Victoria said the siblings had a "special bond" and her death had a huge impact.

"We felt her loss more when we stayed in the house because she was such a big personality," she said.

"The distraction of going out walking in the fresh air and focusing on nature hugely helped Maxwell's mental health and stopped him worrying about all the sad things going on."

Maxwell has undertaken projects to get a closer look at insects

Maxwell, who looks up to Sir David Attenborough and Chris Packham as his "nature heroes", was one of 200 young people involved in the Our Beautiful Wild film.

He and Victoria captured footage in the village of Osmotherley.

The location occupies a special place in his heart due to visits with his sister before her death

Maxwell said: "The film was made for other young people who need that spark of passion ignited for nature.

"It was absolutely amazing to be part of that community."

"I absolutely loved the film, he worked so hard and we are all so proud," Victoria added.