A charity in Cam has received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services.

GL11 Community Hub is an organisation that works to support all local residents, helping them to connect, develop and gain confidence and inspiration by providing a springboard for opportunities to create an economically and socially thriving local community.

On Thursday 12 July, the volunteer co-ordinator of the organisation Marion Lloyd received the award from Dame Janet Trotter at a Queen’s Award Garden Party at the Hub in Cam.

The award is highly coveted, with only 250 organisations across the UK selected each year by the National Awards Committee. These selections then are approved by the Queen. The winners of the award are given a signed certificate from her Royal Majesty, whilst also receiving a domed glass crystal.

The presentation of the award was attended by around 100 guests, including the aforementioned Dame Janet, David Drew MP and Deputy Police Commissioner Chris Brierley.

Speeches of recognition were given by attendees at the event with Dame Janet herself describing the organisation as ‘remarkable’.

“This award is very significant not just for this area but also for Gloucestershire.” She said.

“The assessment process is very hard, so again it just shows how fantastic the work this group is doing actually is.”

“The thing that really impresses me is the equality that is around this organisation. Everyone here cares for one another, and that is what makes this place so special.

“I see a lot of charities and organisations, however I have never seen the assessors so happy to recognise an organisation. The sense of real hospitality is in the air here, it is just fantastic to appreciate them.”

Dame Janet Trotter, Marion Lloyd, David Drew MP and Indigo Redfearn (Manager of GL11)

David Drew, MP for Stroud, also spoke very highly of the organisation and praised it for the 'delicate and helpful' work that they do.

"I want to say a very special thank you to all the volunteers here at GL11." He said.

"I have a very close friend who comes here, and it is the only opportunity he gets to go out and have some conversation.

"All of you here make those people who need support and guidance, you make their lives. So thank you very much."

Marion Lloyd has been at the organisation since it was founded in 2005, and she was also quick to express her ‘delight’ at the recognition of the groups work.

“It is very special in giving the volunteers who do fantastic work here the praise that they deserve.

“We are trying to grow, we’re creating new volunteer roles here. I want to expand the opportunities here at GL11, and help people to get through the door."