BURWARTON and District Agricultural Society has been honoured with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service 2016, considered the MBE and the highest accolade for voluntary groups.

Show chairman Mike Bradbury explains what an honour it is to be recognised for the on-going voluntary work.

“The extremely dedicated and committed team of 400-plus people is made up of a combination of committee members, stewards and local supporters young and old, who all make Burwarton Show the award-winning success it is every first Thursday in August," he said.

“We’re honoured to be commended with this prestigious award.

"It’s well deserved as many of the committee and stewards have been involved with the show for well over 20 years, and with 2016 being the 125th year of the show, it’s extremely fitting.

“I was privileged to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May to meet other winners of this year’s award.”

Speaking about why Burwarton Society was nominated, Mike says that the volunteers involved were admired for the on-going work they do for the community in delivering an action-packed agricultural show that is true to its roots every year.

“We were delighted when they informed us we’d been selected as a recipient for The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service 2016.

“The award represents a tremendous achievement for Burwarton Show, and is a fitting tribute for everyone who gets involved and makes our show award-winning, and still a success 125 years on. Stewards, volunteers and dedicated committee members alike should all be extremely proud of our joint achievement,” he says.

The signed certificate from Her Majesty The Queen and an English Crystal with the logo insignia will be presented by the Lord Lieutenant for Shropshire to everyone involved in Burwarton Show at the stewards' evening, before show day.

This award was created by The Queen in 2002 to mark the occasion of her Golden Jubilee, recognising excellence in voluntary activities carried out by groups in the community. It is considered the MBE for volunteer groups.

Burwarton and District Agricultural Society is one of 193 charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the award this year. The number of awards given to groups this year is slightly higher than last year, showing that the voluntary sector is thriving and full of innovative ideas to tackle community challenges. This is something Burwarton takes very seriously with its commitment to local charities and the community.

“We hope people will support our award-winning Burwarton Show on Thursday, August 4 for what is set to be a fun-packed, family day out,” said Mike.