A DEDICATED community organisation committed to environmental conservation has received its prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
On Friday, April 19, Andover Trees United (ATU) volunteers were honoured to be awarded the King’s Award by the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson ESQ.
The award is given to volunteer groups who have made an exceptional difference to their local community and the equivalent of an MBE for charities. This accolade recognises the exceptional contributions and impact that Andover Trees United has made through its various initiatives and projects.
Eighty people attended the celebration, where the Lord-Lieutenant presented the group with the award in his capacity as the King’s representative.
READ MORE: Andover charity wins prestigious King's award equivalent to MBE
He officially opened the newly-constructed community Cabin, a testament to the hard work of the charity over the past seven years, and presented more than 20 long-term dedicated volunteers with badges for their exemplary service to the charity.
ATU has said it is ‘extremely proud of the commitment and dedication given by so many’. Without all members of Andover Trees United, the charity would neither have been able to achieve so much, nor be in a position to continue its important work.
SEE ALSO: 'Much-needed' improvements to finally begin on Andover woodland this month
A group spokesperson said: “Through a range of environmental initiatives and community programs, Andover Trees United has rooted itself as a force for positive change in their local area.
“Environmental initiatives and projects from tree planting campaigns to habitat restoration projects, Andover Trees United is on a mission to greenify its local area and create a more sustainable ecosystem for all. Their hands-on approach to environmental conservation has not only beautified the landscape but also enhanced biodiversity and mitigated the impacts of climate change.
“Social and educational programs, Andover Trees United also branches out into social and educational initiatives that engage and empower community members of all ages. Through workshops, events, and educational campaigns, they sow the seeds of environmental awareness and inspire future generations to become stewards of the earth.”
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