Cotswold Canals Trust celebrates Queen’s Award
VOLUNTEERS and supporters of the Cotswold Canals Trust turned out in force for the recent presentation of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Making the presentation beside the canal courtesy of the Stonehouse Court Hotel, the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire Edward Gillespie described it as ‘a massive accolade’ for the contribution made to an organisation which has transformed the landscape.
He added: “It also represents the benefit that volunteering brings to the quality of life of so many people.”
The Cotswold Canals Trust provides volunteer- led restoration along a 36-mile canal corridor. More than 7000 members with more than 300 volunteers are actively engaged in the restoration, fundraising and trading activities, which in turn provide services that benefit people and nature by providing them with a blue-green corridor.
Volunteers keep the towpaths and waterways clear which are enjoyed by more than 250,000 people each year. Maintenance is provided in an environmentally friendly way while meeting obligations of restoring heritage structures.
Adding his congratulations, chairman of trustees Jim White said: “Having the trust and support of so many volunteers helps us to create beautiful spaces for communities, improve the environment and celebrate the industrial heritage of Gloucestershire.
“This award is a testament to the decades of volunteer-led activity that has gone before us and will continue long into the future.”
Two volunteers from the Cotswold Canals Trust will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May 2022, depending on restrictions at the time, along with other recipients of this year’s Queen’s Award.
Next year will be auspicious for the trust, as it marks the 50th anniversary of its voluntary activity.