VOLUNTEERS at a Worcester homeless centre are celebrating receiving a prestigious Queen's Award.

Maggs Day Centre, in Deansway, has today (Thursday) been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The award will be presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Lt Col Patrick Holcroft, on Monday, July 11.

On the same day the centre will celebrate by holding a tea party for its volunteers.

Mel Kirk, manager of the centre said: "We are completely overwhelmed and shocked to win this award, it is absolutely incredible to think we have won such a prestigious award.

"Our volunteers are absolutely phenomenal and they really are so invaluable, our services would not have been able to have such an impact in Worcester without them.

"Whether it is distributing clothing, working in the kitchen or everything else that they do, they really are brilliant."

Maggs Day Centre was founded in 1984 after a homeless man died after years of sleeping rough on the streets.

His death prompted members of the local community to work together to set up a day centre dedicated to helping the homeless people of Worcester.

The centre now also provides support, training and practical assistance to help homeless people to rebuild their lives.

Three other Worcestershire organisations - Harvington Hall Volunteers, Alfrick and Lulsley Community Shop, and Kyre and Stoke Bliss Neighbourhood Lunch - have also been honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Lt Col Holcroft said: "I am delighted to be able to present this prestigious award on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen, to four such worthy organisations.

"Volunteering is such an important part of our national and county life; it is not only essential to the success of many local charitable organisations, but it is also an excellent way of making new friends, learning new skills, as well as giving something back to the community."