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This is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.

The Abbey Trust is among 231 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups nationally to receive the prestigious award this year.

The group have been recognised for their continued efforts following the successful restoration of Evesham Abbey.

Site volunteers continue to be engaged in maintaining the gardens, organising conducted tours and maintaining and developing links with schools.

Mr Barrie Baldelli from the Evesham Abbey Trust said, “We are greatly honoured to have been awarded the Kings Award For Voluntary Service. Our volunteers have given freely of their enthusiasm, time, energy and skills in securing and restoring the Evesham Abbey remains for over ten years because they recognised its value and importance both locally and nationally. The Kings Award is valued by the Trust and its volunteers through its recognition of local community endeavour and hopes it will act as encouragement to other local voluntary endeavours and activities."

Mrs Beatrice Grant, Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, is delighted for the Evesham Abbey Trust and said: “Volunteering is one of the most valuable contributions anyone can make. It not only strengthens communities and supports those within them, but also offers individuals the chance to share their skills, discover new friendships, and find real fulfilment. The Evesham Abbey Trust has exemplified this spirit, with 150 volunteers at the height of their activities, each bringing unique interests and talents at just the right time. Their project has been an outstanding success, and I am delighted to offer my sincere congratulations on receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Service – a richly deserved honour.”

The Lord-Lieutenant of 91��Ƭ��will present Evesham Abbey Trust with their award and certificate early next year.

Two volunteers from the Trust will attend a Royal Garden Party held at Buckingham Palace in May and June 2026 along with other recipients of this year’s Award.

Recipients are announced annually on 14th November, HM The King’s Birthday.

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

It was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and, following his accession, His Majesty The King emphasised his desire to continue the Award.

Nominations for the King's Award for Voluntary Service 2026 are currently being invited, although the nomination 'window' closes on the 1st December 2025.

If you would like to nominate an exceptional voluntary organisation, then please do contact the 91��Ƭ��Lieutenancy for advice as soon as possible on Lieutenancy@worcestershire.gov.uk

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