The hard work and commitment of volunteers in Tamworth has been recognised at the highest level.

The Heart of Tamworth community project (HoT) has been awarded The King's Award for Voluntary Service. This is often referred to as the MBE for voluntary organisations and is the highest honour they can receive.

The project is a local charity supporting people across the Tamworth area. It delivers a wide range of services and support from community facilities at the Sacred Heart Centre in Glascote and St John’s Church in the town centre.

Over 150 volunteers give their time and expertise to help others in the area.

Parish priest, Father Michael White, said: “We are delighted to receive this prestigious award in recognition of how much the Church does contribute to the local community. It also bears witness to lay people, volunteers who are serving God, bringing the Good News to people in need and bearing witness to their faith.”

A total of 281 voluntary groups were selected to receive the award this year.

Main photograph: Bishop David from Northampton heard about the award and popped in to congratulate the team. He described the project as 'amazing'.