Tamworth children’s charity Simon’s Heroes has celebrated receiving The King’s Award for Voluntary Service at a special presentation ceremony held at Statfold Country Park.
Members, volunteers, supported families, local businesses and community supporters gathered in the Strawberry Suite on Sunday 6 September to mark the charity’s remarkable achievement.
The charity was officially presented with its King’s Award certificate and crystal trophy by the Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Professor Elizabeth Barnes, on behalf of His Majesty The King.
The ceremony was also attended by the High Sheriff of Staffordshire, Pritpal Nagi; the Mayor of Tamworth, Ken Norchi; and the Deputy Mayor of Tamworth, Patricia Pallett. Simon’s Heroes was also delighted to welcome Dawn Price, who nominated the charity for the award.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and recognises the outstanding contribution made by groups of volunteers within their communities.
Speaking about Simon’s Heroes, the Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Professor Elizabeth Barnes, said:
“Simon’s Heroes is a charity with community ownership inspiring members to volunteer. They are fuelled by emotion, compassion and a deep commitment to serving the most vulnerable members of their community. They have achieved so much through their dedication, empathy and purpose. They make things happen and change lives for children and their families, providing opportunities they may never have had. Truly deserving of the King’s Award for Voluntary Services.”
Founded in 2013, Simon’s Heroes supports children and young people living with long-term health conditions and disabilities across Tamworth and the surrounding area. Over the years, the charity has funded specialist equipment, wheelchairs, therapies, home adaptations, garden and bedroom transformations, family experiences and other practical support designed to improve children’s lives.
The charity has also supported specialist educational provisions by helping to fund equipment and improvements to sensory, learning and outdoor spaces.
However, the award recognises much more than the projects themselves. It celebrates every fundraiser, event marshal and volunteer who has given their time to help, as well as those working behind the scenes to complete funding applications, organise events, manage finances, approach businesses and promote the charity.
Charlotte Abbott, Chair of Simon’s Heroes, said:
“As Chair, I could not be prouder to accept this incredible award on behalf of everyone who has contributed to Simon’s Heroes. This recognition belongs to every member, volunteer, fundraiser, supporter and business that has helped us make a difference to local children and their families.
“Our volunteers give their time because they genuinely care about the children we support. To have that commitment recognised by His Majesty The King is an enormous honour. Seeing our members, supported families and community partners gathered together to celebrate made the occasion particularly special. We are immensely grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey, and we hope this award will help us continue changing lives for many years to come.”
During the ceremony, Simon’s Heroes members were presented with commemorative King’s Award badges in recognition of their dedication to the charity. The presentation was followed by official photographs and a buffet lunch, giving guests an opportunity to celebrate the achievement together.
The charity extends its sincere thanks to all the families, members, volunteers, past and present, local businesses, organisations, sponsors and individual supporters who attended and who have contributed to its work over the years.
Special thanks go to the team at Statfold Country Park for providing such a wonderful venue and taking exceptional care of guests throughout the day. The charity received many compliments about the venue, food and service, and guests also enjoyed the opportunity to explore Statfold’s attractions following the ceremony.
Simon’s Heroes would also like to thank Helium Heaven for supplying the striking purple, white and gold balloon displays; Prontaprint for producing the event stationery; and photographer Bob Cooper for capturing the occasion. Thanks also go to Jane Kennedy for creating the celebration cake and for her continued support of the charity.
Charlotte added:
“This was a celebration of everything our community has achieved together. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make the ceremony so memorable, as well as every person who has supported Simon’s Heroes throughout its history. This award belongs to all of you.”
