Groups’ royal seal of approval
RECOGNISED FOR SERVICES TO COMMUNITIES
SIX voluntary groups, including first aid trainers, a radio station and fundraisers, have been presented with the highest award they can receive in the UK.
The inaugural King’s Award for Voluntary Service – which hold the same value as an MBE and acknowledge the efforts of groups in their communities – were presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur.
Each of the six groups were nominated by the public of Leicester and Leicestershire, and their success was announced on November 14, 2023, the King’s Birthday.
The recipients were each visited by the Lord-Lieutenant, the King’s representative in the county, who held ceremonies to present them with their award.
Mr Kapur said: “As Lord-Lieutenant, I visit a large number of community organisations in Leicester and Leicestershire, and I never cease to be amazed at the quality and range of services and support these groups are providing within their local communities and beyond.
“Although diverse in their nature, what is a common feature is that these organisations rely so much on the voluntary efforts of those people who work tirelessly for the benefit of others.
Heartwize, in Leicester, has been recognised for its efforts in increasing public awareness of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
It aims to create a “generation of lifesavers” by offering training on CPR and use of defibrillators to all Year 10 pupils across Leicestershire.
The first community radio station in the UK, 103TheEye, has been broadcasting 24/7 across Melton for 18 years, and has also received an award. It is volunteer-run and is a pioneer in the community radio space. The station also runs training programmes for young people to learn about radio broadcasting.
Another award was given to Bosworth In Bloom, which has been committed to creating floral displays since 1985 to boost local pride and create a beautiful, clean and welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
They also encourage young people to get involved in growing plants and flowers, which not only helps their mental health and teaches them new skills, but also fosters a greater understanding of sustainability and environmentalism.
Also recognised was Market Bosworth Community Library. It is a community hub which provides a welcoming and safe environment in which to deliver library services, resources and activities to benefit the surrounding rural community. Volunteers contribute over 200 hours a month to ensure the community library can serve more than 2,000 people. Swannington Heritage Trust has been rewarded for its efforts in transforming and preserving five industrial sites, including the Hough Mill, a restored 1790s corn mill.
The trust is also recognised for its work in researching and archiving records and artefacts for future generations to learn about Leicester’s history.
Shree Jalaram Prarthana MandalJalaram Mandir and Jalaram Community Centre Leicester have also been awarded for their efforts in supporting the local community through a range of initiatives, from helping the homeless, raising money for other charities, and distributing food to those in need. Mr Kapur added: “I am delighted in the inaugural year of the King’s Awards, so many of Leicestershire’s wonderful voluntary groups have received the recognition they deserve. The awards are a fitting tribute to their compassion, dedication, and selflessness in helping others.” Nominations for the 2025 awards will reopen in June 2024.
The awards are a fitting tribute to their compassion, dedication, and selflessness
Mike Kapur