Herefordshire and Worcestershire Volunteers Honored with King's Award

In 2025, three community organizations based in Herefordshire and Worcestershire have been honored with the King's Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade for volunteer groups in the UK. The Colwall Orchard Group (COG) and Kington Walks in Herefordshire, as well as the Evesham Abbey Trust in Worcestershire, were among the 280 local charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year.

The Lord-Lieutenant for Herefordshire, Edward Harley CBE, expressed his delight in seeing local volunteers recognized for their tireless efforts. COG, a group of over 200 members with 81 regular volunteers, has worked to restore and celebrate traditional orchards, promote wellbeing, and connect people with nature. Meanwhile, Kington Walks volunteers have been praised for their work in encouraging walking for the benefits of health, pleasure, and overall wellbeing in the local area. The Evesham Abbey Trust, formed in 2014, has raised over £1.2 million to conserve and restore the Evesham Abbey site, developing interpretive gardens for the public to enjoy.

These three organizations have demonstrated the remarkable impact that dedicated volunteers can have on their communities, and their recognition with the King's Award is a testament to their invaluable contributions.