SOME of the borough's biggest-hearted residents have celebrated winning the prestigious Queen's Award for Voluntary Service with the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Jane Black.

Recognising excellence in the voluntary sector the Queen's award is regarded as the MBE for volunteer groups, and was created in 2002 to mark the Golden Jubilee.

To celebrate the award, representatives from four of this year's winners, Re>Build (Bury), the New Springs Community Project, Annabelle's Challenge and the Joshua Wilson Brain Tumour Charity (SuperJosh), toasted their success in the mayor's parlour on July 18.

Cllr Black said: “One of the best things about being the mayor is meeting all the people who devote their time to volunteering and charity work in the borough, and have done for many years.

"It’s particularly important to see their work being recognised outside Bury as well.

"I was delighted to meet all four organisations and they can be truly proud of all they have done to improve the lives of people across our borough.”

The groups will be formally presented with their awards by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester at a ceremony at Gorton Monastery next month.

They will also attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace and will be able to use the award logo on their stationery and letterheads.

To nominate a voluntary group for the Queen's Award visit qavs.direct.gov.uk.