King’s Award for Voluntary Service Recognizes Three Hull and East Yorkshire Groups

King Charles has recognized three community organizations located in Hull and East Yorkshire. These recipients of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service are a Hull-based breast cancer charity, Pocklington Rugby in the Community (PRITC), and the Fitmums and Friends exercise group, which is based in Cottingham. The late Queen instituted this award in 2002, coinciding with her Golden Jubilee. According to its official website, the accolade holds a status comparable to an MBE and is considered “the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK”. Sam Barlow, the founder of Fitmums and Friends, expressed that she was “absolutely thrilled” by the group’s recognition. She stated, “It is such an honour and a wonderful way of paying tribute to the commitment of our hundreds of volunteers who help change people’s lives by improving health and well-being through activity.” This charity operates a network of local clubs, providing diverse fitness activities suitable for both women and men across all ability levels. PRITC indicated its approach involves utilizing sport to “connect the local community”. Its volunteer team, comprising over 75 individuals, manages initiatives including a monthly drop-in session for those experiencing loneliness, alongside fitness and sporting activities tailored for adults with learning disabilities. Andy Bowden, the Chair, commented: “The King’s Award honours the selfless dedication of PRITC volunteers who consistently go above and beyond in offering their invaluable support. “Far more than event helpers, PRITC’s volunteers are the backbone of its mission, building relationships that support the very foundation of the community.” The third recipient of the award is Hull and East Riding Breast Friends, a charitable organization dedicated to offering assistance to individuals impacted by breast cancer.