Published: Wednesday 03rd June 2020 | 4.45pm
The Friends of Hednesford Park have this week received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
This award is the highest recognition that can be given to volunteer groups across the UK. A total of 230 organisations have been given the award this year.
The award coincides with Volunteer’s Week, which takes place from 1-7 June. The award celebrates groups whose work has enhanced and supported local communities over a number of years.
The Friends of Hednesford Park was officially established by the Council on 22 September 2011, and with 30 volunteers are a community organisation, who work closely with Cannock Chase Council, on the restoration and upkeep of Hednesford Park and Hednesford War Memorial.
Councillor Christine Mitchell, Portfolio Leader for Culture and Sport said “Hednesford Park after receiving National Lottery Funding in 2011 is one of the best parks in the district. In 2019 it received over 580,000 visitors; and hosts numerous free events for families and children throughout the year. The park has received the prestigious Green Flag Award and a Gold Britain in Bloom award for the last three consecutive years. These awards are testament to the constant hard work and dedication of the volunteers of Hednesford Park, who are there day after day helping with its upkeep, hosting events and working with the local community. I am very proud of all the volunteers and of the park they help to look after.”
Chairperson for The Friends of Hednesford Park, Kelvin Stephens said “We are delighted to be awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Services. The award recognises the dedication of our amazing team of volunteers who deliver weekly support groups for Mental Well-being and regular activities for the community in Hednesford Park. Even in the current unprecedented time, we have continued to support the local community in any way we can.”