Six Buckinghamshire organisations have been awarded the 2024 King's Award for Voluntary Service.

The prestigious award, equivalent to an MBE, is the highest honour given to voluntary groups in the UK.

The Buckinghamshire organisations named as recipients of this year's award are Milton Keynes Community Cardio-Pulmonary Group, Redway Runners, Restore Hope, Space (Aylesbury), SV2G, and The Lady Ryder Memorial Garden Volunteer Group.

Their work ranges from community cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation and improving mental and physical health through volunteer-led runs, to giving hope to families through community training and food, and promoting wellbeing to reduce loneliness.

Countess Howe, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, said: "I am delighted that these six groups have been recognised for their excellence in volunteering.

"They serve their communities with unwavering passion and commitment year in year out, giving truly transformational support to so many groups."

The winning organisations are among 281 charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups across the UK to receive the award.

Representatives from each group will be presented with an award crystal and certificate by Countess Howe.

In addition, two volunteers from each organisation will be invited to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace next year with other award recipients.

The award was established in 2002 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee and was known until this year as The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.