King's award given to youth groups in Essex

1st Ockenden Cub Pack said it was pleased to receive the special award

Youth groups across Essex have spoken of being honoured and proud to have received a special award from the King.

The King's Award for Voluntary Service is the highest national award a voluntary group can receive in the UK, and recipients are announced every year on Charles III's birthday.

1st Ockenden Cub Pack and charities 4YOUth Brightlingsea and ATF (Achieve, Thrive, Flourish) were among those receiving an accolade on the King's 77th birthday.

Jennifer Tolhurst, Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, said it was a "wonderful tribute to the outstanding work of the voluntary sector" in the county.

The awards are announced on the King's birthday each year, on 14 November

The group, 4 Youth Brightlingsea, helps young people and provides them with a safe space. It puts together music, sport and social events.

Margaret Tay, from the group, said: "Winning this award is not only recognition for our club as it is today, but is also a chance for us to say 'thank you' to everyone who has contributed to our club over the years."

Paul Morton Kemp, from 1st Ockenden Cub Pack, said the group was so pleased with the award it was hoping to get a "very special" uniform badge in recognition, which every cub and leader would be able to wear.

"We certainly don't do scouting for recognition or praise, but to get some is massively appreciated," he said.

Meanwhile, ATF works with communities "at risk of exclusion" across south Essex, to develop safe environments that increase opportunity, aspiration and achievement.

Stuart Martin, from the charity, said winning was "a huge honour", adding it was "so grateful to have been nominated".