Severn Hospice to receive Queen's Award for Voluntary Service

Volunteers from Severn Hospice have been named as one of a number of voluntary groups from across the country to receive the prestigious award.

The charity's volunteers were selected from more than 200 other groups nominated by members of the public and those who have benefitted as a result of their work.

The announcement comes during national Volunteers' Week which runs all this week.

Severn Hospice, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2014, relies on the generosity of more than 1,000 volunteers who give their time free of charge to help make a difference in their community.

The award is the equivalent in status for voluntary groups as an MBE is for individuals and is the highest accolade to be awarded to voluntary groups.

David Sear, chairman of trustees at Severn Hospice, said: "Everyone at the hospice is absolutely delighted to hear the news that our volunteers are to receive the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

"It is very fitting that our volunteers, who form a vital part of what we do at the hospice, receive such recognition during our silver anniversary year.

"Since we first opened our doors in 1989 so many people have given their time to enable us to provide our vital services within the local community. From supporting our medical teams to helping raise the money needed to fund our services, our volunteers are an essential part of our team. Without their unwavering support we simply would not be able to care for the thousands of patients who need our support.

"The generosity and commitment of our volunteers continues to astound me, they are truly remarkable people. On behalf of the board of trustees and everyone at Severn Hospice I would like to say congratulations and thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers for all they do to make the hospice such a special place."