Volunteers given royal stamp of approval

ON our hols . . . members and volunteer helpers on a recent trip to Blackpool

THE Queen has honoured a group with an award for their voluntary work within the community.

The Terence O'Grady Social Club ­- a voluntary group based in Oldham - was recognised with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service for 2016 because of its work to provide social and leisure activities for adults with learning disabilities.

It will be presented with the award by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester on Monday, July 4 during a ceremony at Gorton Monastery.

Phil and Jean Webber, chairman and secretary of the club, attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, May 24 with Her Majesty the Queen, Prince Philip and members of the Royal Family along with other winners of this year's award were also present.

Phil said: "The club aims to be a positive force in encouraging members to enjoy quality leisure time and the current membership numbers 120 with a weekly attendance of about 90 adults.

"Members are supported in various activities by our team of over 30 volunteers who give up their time each week throughout the year.

"Without the commitment of these dedicated volunteers the club would be unable to offer weekly club nights and 'out of club' activities which include an annual weekend break, theatre visits and bowling.

"I am delighted and proud of the club receiving such an honour which recognises the contribution made by this amazing team, some of whom have been involved with the club for over 50 years.

"Our volunteers range in age from 17 years upwards and we are pleased to welcome anyone interested in supporting our members."

The award, the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups, was created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee and is the highest a group can receive in the UK.

The Terence O'Grady Club is one of the oldest clubs of its kind, founded by the Chief Medical Officer for the old Lancashire Area Health Authority Terence O'Grady, it has supported adults with learning disabilities for more than 50 years.