Community groups honoured by King's award

Pocklington Rugby in the Community uses sport as a way to "connect the local community"

Three community groups in Hull and East Yorkshire have been honoured by King Charles.

Recipients of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service include a Hull breast cancer charity, Pocklington Rugby in the Community (PRITC) and Cottingham-based Fitmums and Friends exercise group.

The award was established by the late Queen during her Golden Jubilee in 2002.

Its official website said the award was equivalent to an MBE and was "the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK".

Fitmums and Friends founder Sam Barlow said she was "absolutely thrilled" the group had been recognised.

"It is such an honour and a wonderful way of paying tribute to the commitment of our hundreds of volunteers who help change people's lives by improving health and well-being through activity," she said.

The charity’s network of local clubs offers a range of fitness activities for women and men of all abilities.

PRITC said it uses sport as a way to "connect the local community".

Its team of more than 75 volunteers run projects such as a monthly drop-in session for people who feel lonely and fitness and sporting activities for adults with learning disabilities.

Chair Andy Bowden said: “The King's Award honours the selfless dedication of PRITC volunteers who consistently go above and beyond in offering their invaluable support.

"Far more than event helpers, PRITC’s volunteers are the backbone of its mission, building relationships that support the very foundation of the community."

The final award winner is Hull and East Riding Breast Friends, a charity which provides support for people affected by breast cancer.

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