A group from West Dorset has been recognised in the Kings' Awards for Voluntary Service (KAVS).

Around 45 volunteers have been handed the award for their contribution to the West Bay Discovery Centre.

The Centre, originally established by the Bridport Area Development Trust, now operated by the Bridport Town Council, opened six years ago, welcoming more than 120,000 visitors during that time.

Volunteers help plan and run activities for all ages, leaded guided walks of the area, and are always looking to carry out further research for future exhibitions.

West Bay Discovery CentreWest Bay Discovery Centre (Image: West Bay Discovery Centre) John West, chair of the organisation, Friends of West Bay Discovery Centre- which help raise funds to put on exhibitions among other things, was thrilled with the news.

He said: “I am delighted that the volunteers’ work has been recognised and the fact that more than 20 volunteers have been with the centre for at least five years shows both their commitment and how rewarding they find it.

“They are a special bunch of people who enjoy working with each other and whose delight in seeing visitors enjoying all the centre has to offer is always evident.”

Following the announcement of the award, the KAVS crystal and certificate will be presented  by the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Michael Dooley LVO MMs FRCOG.

Created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and previously known as The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS), the award aims to shine a spotlight on the fantastic work of voluntary groups from all across the UK for many years.

Volunteers at West Bay Discovery CentreVolunteers at West Bay Discovery Centre (Image: West Bay Discovery Centre) This year there are 281 recipients of The King’s Award Voluntary Service from across the UK and Channel Islands. Recipients are announced annually on the King’s Birthday.

Equivalent to an MBE, KAVS is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK, and they are awarded for life.

This is not the first time this year that a group from West Dorset has been recognised for their voluntary service, with Harmony Bridport receiving an award back in June.

For more information on the West Bay Discovery Centre, and how you can become a volunteer, visit https://www.westbaydiscoverycentre.org.uk/volunteering-at-west-bay-discovery-centre/.