A LIFE-SAVING search and rescue team has received the Queen's Award after 'outstanding' work above and beyond the call of duty.

West Mercia Search and Rescue, the voluntary team for Worcestershire has received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS).

The team, which has said volunteers are 'incredibly proud' of the achievement, also provides a lifeline in Herefordshire and Shropshire, helping bring people home safely. 

 

 

 

Police and crime commissioner John Campion said on Twitter: "Some great news this #VolunteersWeek2022! @WestMerciaSAR have received the @QueensAwardVS."

Mr Campion said in his role as police and crime commissioner he had invested £60,000 to help the charity protect missing and vulnerable people all across West Mercia.

He added: "Congratulations to all those who dedicate their time."

In a further statement he wrote: “This is an outstanding accolade, made more poignant in volunteer’s week during the jubilee celebrations.

"On behalf of the communities these volunteers protect, I would like to thank them for their dedicated commitment, professionalism and all of the work that often goes unseen.

"Search and Rescue provides an important service, and their positive relationship with the police, plus their proactive work around water safety means more people are brought home safely.”