Volunteer groups in Somerset are being urged to apply for a prestigious royal award.
Applications for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), the equivalent of an MBE for individuals, are now open.
The award is the highest honour for voluntary groups and recognises outstanding work that benefits local communities.
In the last round, a record 11 Somerset groups were recognised, covering a range of causes from premature babies to the arts and the environment.
Justin Sargent, the deputy lieutenant responsible for promoting KAVS in Somerset, said: "Across our county, often hidden from view, are hundreds of voluntary groups providing much-needed support to some of the most vulnerable people on our doorstep and creating vibrant communities which benefit all of us.
"A nomination for a King's Award for Voluntary Service is a brilliant way to recognise their efforts and increase awareness of their work."
Nominations are open until Monday, December 1, and anyone familiar with the work of a group can put them forward.
The process is straightforward, with guidelines available on the KAV website.
One group that benefited from the award is Exmoor Young Voices (EYV), who said the award gave them a massive boost.
The group was nominated in 2024 and received the award earlier this year.
EYV chair, William Lock, said: "Just being nominated for this award astounded EYV.
"After 12 years of patient awareness raising about the issues facing young adults on Exmoor – and very little to show in terms of policy changes among the relevant authorities – to be recognised is such an energy boost.
"Since the presentation, we have had amazing media coverage and a surge of enthusiasm with planning ahead for greater developments.
"This level of recognition is priceless in terms of our future influence in helping young people to stay living and working on Exmoor."
Young coordinator Megan Hunt added: "Exmoor Young Voices is an organisation of young residents and workers on the moor tackling issues including housing, digital inclusion, employment, communications, travel, and local wages.
"The King’s Award is really making their voices count."
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