Wigan volunteers celebrate as they are recognised by the Queen

Commonly known as the MBE for volunteer groups, the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service recognises the outstanding work done by volunteers to benefit their local communities

A total of 33 awards have been presented in Greater Manchester this year - more than any other county in the country - and several of those have been given to groups in Wigan.

The recipients are Breastfeeding Together, Garswood Hall Bowling and Community Club, True Colours CIC, Parbold Douglas Music Lancashire, Parbold Picture House, Wrightington and Wigan Group of Friends for Cancer Research UK and Leigh Ornithological Society.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Sir Warren Smith, said: “This award recognises the contribution an organisation makes within its community. It is a rare honour. It is not won easily and it recognises real achievement, effort and a major contribution to the community.

“I am delighted for the groups across Greater Manchester which have received the award. Recent times have highlighted just how valuable volunteering is to the country and I hope many more will be nominated in the future.”

Full story in this week's Wigan Observer

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