'Tireless' volunteers awarded by King Charles

Sanjeev Kumar, the charity's general secretary, said its members were "truly honoured" by the award

A gurdwara has been awarded by King Charles for its "tireless" voluntary work across a town.

Shri Guru Ravidass Sangat in Luton was named among other national organisations for the King's Award for Voluntary Service on Thursday.

It delivered more than 21,000 hot meals during the Covid-19 pandemic and has held a weekly lunch club in the Bedfordshire town for 25 years.

The Sikh charity's president, Bhagat Ram, said all involved were "truly grateful" for the recognition from Buckingham Palace.

"This recognition is for all who have worked tirelessly to uplift and support our community," he said.

"Every effort counts and reflects our collective commitment to making a difference."

The charity has been helping vulnerable communities over the past 40 years and offered them the chance to enhance their lives.

Projects delivered at the temple have included free legal advice and classes for cooking, sewing and dressmaking.

Zanib Raja, a Labour councillor on Luton Borough Council, said the work carried out by volunteers was "inspiring and amazing".

"It's amazing to see all different faiths, cultures, colours, creeds and ages here, and it's really important to help vulnerable communities in Luton," she said.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award a community group can receive in the UK and recognises the work done to support local people.

Recipients have been announced annually on 14 November, King Charles' birthday.