Village shop run entirely by volunteers gets King's Award

A village shop has been presented with the King's Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award given to local volunteer groups in the UK and equivalent to an MBE.

Almondsbury Community Shop in Bristol has been entirely run by volunteers since it opened in 2009.

The ceremony was held on 24 May, when Edward Gillespie OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, formally presented the award on behalf of the King.

Chairman Brian Wyatt said it was a "wonderful recognition" of the volunteers.

Residents gathered for the ceremony, with Deputy Lieutenants Susie Hewson-Lowe and Caroline Penley also in attendance.

Mr Wyatt said: "Our community shop is entirely run by an amazing team of volunteers.

"They not only keep the shop running smoothly but also offer a friendly face to everyone who walks through the door.

"In doing so, they've created something truly special – a warm, welcoming place that sits at the heart of the village.

The King's Award for Voluntary Service was established in 2002 to celebrate the work of volunteer groups making a significant impact in their communities.

The shop was among 281 groups selected last year to receive the award.

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