Six Sussex charities receive King's Award for Voluntary Service

They are among dozens across the country to be awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (Kavs) on his birthday, which is today.

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

Charities which impressed the panel include one described as the “eyes and ears of the Sussex coastline”, a group of musicians in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction and a band of enthusiastic cyclists who take dementia patients on seafront bike rides.

The Sussex Heart Charity were also given the award (Image: Sussex Heart Charity/Jason Palmer)

The charities are Brighter Uckfield, National Coastwatch Newhaven, the New Note Orchestra from Brighton, the Pedal People of Brighton, The Monday Group and The Sussex Heart Charity.

Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex Andrew Blackman said: “We are incredibly proud of all the volunteer groups who have been awarded the highly sought-after King's Award for Voluntary Service.

"Even being nominated is testament to the hard work and dedication of all the volunteers who work tirelessly in service of their communities.

“For them to have been recognised in this way is a reflection of the rich tapestry of charities within East Sussex who give their all to care for others."

Some of the Sussex Heart Charity's work includes provide life-saving equipment. Pictured is Lewes railway station (Image: Sussex Heart Charity/Jason Palmer)

The six charities will each receive a commemorative piece of crystal and a certificate presented by the lord-lieutenant at ceremonies to be planned over the coming months.

They are among 262 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups from across the UK to be given the award.

The Sussex Heart Charity aims to improve the “heart health for the people of Sussex”.

Jason Palmer, former chairman and long serving volunteer director of charity, said: “I am absolutely thrilled and delighted that the work of all our volunteers past and present including our fundraisers and supporters too are to be formally recognised with this award.

“Looking at the other recipients of the award this year, they all seem equally incredible and inspiring. I am therefore surprised, but so glad, to be receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary service on behalf of The Sussex Heart Charity. It is truly an honour; I could not be prouder.”