A group of Shropshire volunteers at an equestrian centre have been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The Cavalier Centre is one of 262 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.

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Jane Barker, founder of The Cavalier Centre said: “It’s a wonderful tribute for our amazing volunteers. “Everyone is very proud of the Centre and everything that they do.

“We have a lovely atmosphere and horse, and we get really nice comments from people who attend.”

The Cavalier Centre, founded in Baschurch, is a group that promotes riding for the disabled and personal development programmes for improved wellbeing through horses.

It was founded in Baschurch.

This prestigious award was established in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and has been continued by the King.

It is considered the highest honor that local volunteer groups can achieve, equivalent to an MBE.

Anna Turner JP, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire, said: “I am delighted that eight Shropshire groups have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service this year.

“This prestigious award is richly deserved by each of the groups, who have made a real difference to so many people in the county of Shropshire.”

Mrs Turner also advocated for more Shropshire organisations to apply for the King’s Award, underlining the vibrant volunteer community in the region.