AN EVESHAM youth association charity have shared their pride after winning a prestigious Royal award.
Ourside Youth Association, run by volunteers in the town, have been granted The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The charity was established in 2004 and is dedicated to helping support young people in the community through support and activites.
The KIng’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.
A night of celebration was arranged at the centre for the official presentation of the certificate and crystal award.
The youth committee and young people designed the night, decorating the centre with balloon displays, flowers and crafty table decorations.
Refreshments featured a mocktail bar and dessert station serving scones, biscuits and trifles all made by the young people.
The night brought together all the young and adult volunteers that make Ourside what it is. There was a fantastic atmosphere celebrating what can be achieved when we all work together towards a collective purpose and what good it can bring to the community.
Kirsty Hartwell, founding member and secretary said: “I am immensely proud of all those that have given their time to support and volunteer their time for Ourside.
“The recognition and presentation of the prestigious KAVS award means a huge amount to us all.”
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.
It was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and, following his accession, His Majesty The King emphasised his desire to continue the Award.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Mrs Beatrice Grant said: “I was delighted to present Ourside with their Award last week.
“The group’s enthusiasm and energy has created a vibrant safe space where young people can be themselves.
“The services which they provide has become a lifeline to so many and they are a shining example of community volunteering. Many congratulations.”
