Five Lancashire groups among King's Award winners

Five organisations from across Lancashire have been recognised with the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK.

The volunteers, who range from supporting women to revitialising a community centre, are among the 250 national charities and volunteer groups to get the King's Award for Voluntary Service this year.

Each of the groups will receive a certificate signed by the King and a commemorative crystal, presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, at an awards ceremony at County Hall, in Preston.

Parker said she was "delighted" with the groups, adding: "Each is making an important contribution to its community."

Two volunteers from each group will also be invited to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in 2027, alongside other recipients of this year's award.

Aawaz, Accrington

A group that aims to strengthen communities by giving minority women a voice and providing practical, volunteer-led support.

The charity's vision is to "remove the culture of dependency", improve the "lives of south Asian women and their families" and "help create equal and cohesive communities where women can feel a sense of belonging and play their part in the wider society".

Accrington Stations Adoption Group/Stations of Welcome

The community group was founded in 2021 when Shahiesta Raja, from Community Rail Lancashire, invited volunteers to meet on a regular basis and work together to improve the station.

The group clean the platform every week, create artwork and floral displays and tend the station garden.

The group have said they think their group is the only station adoption group in the country made up of South Asian Muslim women.

St Annes Football Club

A local club based in Lytham St Annes which seeks to provide sporting and wider opportunities for people of all abilities, ages and genders.

"This award belongs to every single person who has played a part in making St Annes FC what it is today," the club said in a statement on social media.

"Most importantly, it belongs to the incredible community that surrounds our football club.

"Grassroots football is about so much more than what happens on a football pitch.

"It's about creating opportunities, building friendships, supporting families, developing young people, bringing communities together and making a difference to people's lives."

The Volunteer Team at Hoole Village Memorial Hall

A team of more than 50 volunteers in Much Hoole who promote well-being and community connection, helping to reduce loneliness and isolation in their community.

Trawden Forest Community Centre, Library & Shop

This group in Colne has helped revitalise their village by creating a friendly, thriving and vibrant community hub.

Through hosting events, running a library, community room and shops, the group is entirely self-funded.

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