A leading campaigner fighting against a new nuclear power station has been presented with a prestigious medal.

Professor Andy Blowers travelled to New York to receive the Alexander and Ilse Melamid Medal from the American Geographical Society (AGS).

The award recognised his “outstanding work” in the nuclear research field.

Prof Blowers is chairman of Blackwater Against New Nuclear Group – Banng – which opposes plans for a new Chinese-built power station on the River Blackwater in Bradwell.

Speaking at the ceremony Prof Blowers said: “My lifelong interest as a geographer and social scientist has been the relationship between place, environment, people, and communities.

“My core concern has been with inequality and especially with the idea and reality of ‘peripheral’ communities, places at the margin which experience economic, social, political, and environmental disadvantage.”

Dr Deborah Popper, society vice-president and chairman of the honours committee, said: “Andrew’s work has pushed the public’s understanding of how we manage radioactive waste and what that means for society. AGS is proud to honour him for his contributions and meaningful dedication to education, public service, and our understanding of the complex interactions between energy and humankind.”

Prof Blowers was presented with the award at Columbia University.

In 2002, he was awarded an OBE for services to environmental protection.

He also helped to set up the Open University in 1970.