A youth organisation in Brightlingsea has been honoured with a prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS).
4YOUth Brightlingsea, which offers a supportive and welcoming environment for the young people aged between seven and 17 from its base in Tower Street, is one of just four voluntary groups in Essex to receive this year’s award.
YOUth chair Margaret Tay said: “We are proud and delighted to be receiving this award. It not only recognises the club as it is today, but also gives us the opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed over the years. Since the club began, so many people have supported us with their time, money and guidance, and this award is a wonderful way to show our appreciation.”
Jennifer Tolhurst, Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, who will present the award in due course on behalf of the King, said:“The announcement of four winners of the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service across Essex is a wonderful tribute to the outstanding work of the voluntary sector. This achievement speaks volumes for the excellence of volunteering in our county.”
The KAVS was established in 2002 by the late Queen as the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and has since continued under the King.
• 4YOUth Brightlingsea started 25 years ago as a drop in centre in the centre of town and became a youth club in 2004. Currently it runs two club sessions each week, aiming to provide a safe space for members to come and relax, listen to music, meet and make friends. It offers opportunities to take part in activities to develop and learn new skills.
A self-funding charity run by a small volunteer team, the organisation has a group of trustees who oversee its running. A youth forum gives members a say about what happens at the club and what they want to see happen in the future.
New members and volunteers are welcome at club sessions, which run on Wednesday evenings from 6.30 to 8pm for ages 11 and over, and on Thursday afternoons from 3.30 to 5pm for ages 7 to 11.
