King recognises volunteer groups for service

Dr David Hillebrandt from BASICS Devon said the group was "still a bit stunned" after getting the award

Four organisations in Devon are among the winners of the King's Award for Voluntary Service.

The British Association for Immediate Care Devon (BASICS Devon), Bob the Bus, Erme Valley Riding for the Disabled and Rainbow Living were all recognised this year.

The award aims to highlight voluntary groups and was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee.

Lord-Lieutenant of Devon David Fursdon said: "I am delighted that volunteers in four Devon organisations have received this prestigious award."

Mr Fursdon said: "Their continuing achievements are outstanding examples of the many people in Devon who volunteer in a wide range of activities and provide invaluable service to our community."

Groups are subject to both local and national assessment after being nominated for the award.

BASICS Devon, which delivers emergency pre-hospital care and vital life-saving education across the county, said they were honoured.

Dr David Hillebrandt said it was a tribute to everyone involved with the group.

"I think we're all sort of still a bit stunned by achieving this award and taking it as great honour," he said.

Robert Horton, the charity's chairman, added: "Every call-out represents a moment when someone in our community is facing their worst day, and our volunteers step forward, day and night, to bring emergency care to the scene."