A number of volunteer groups in the sports and leisure sectors have received awards from the Queen this month.

The annual Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Service recognises the role these groups play in providing community services.

Out of 110 awards made on 2 June, recipients included the Lowestoft Heritage Workshop, Weardale Open Air Swimming Pool, Starmaker Theatre Company in Berkshire, Court Meadow Group Riding for the Disabled Association in West Sussex, North Devon Maritime Museum, Treborth Riding for the Disabled Association in Gwynedd and Tamworth Handicapped Swimming Club.

Work done by the organisations include offering sporting activities to people with disabilities and running theatre workshops for disadvantaged young people.

All the winners have been nominated by members of the public and will receive a certificate and commemorative piece of crystal.

Three representatives from each group will also get to attend a reception at St James’ Palace on 19 July.

Minister for the voluntary and community sector, Fiona MacTaggart, said: “This is well-deserved recognition for some of hundreds of thousands of unsung heroes who are active day in, day out in our communities.

“Their engagement in their communities is a vital resource – it empowers individuals, boosts local communities and enriches the nation.”

Nominations for the 2005 Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Service are now open. Groups cannot enter themselves, but must be nominated by a beneficiary of their work, member of the public or representative of a public body. The deadline for entry is 30 September 2004. Details: www.queensawardvoluntary.gov.uk