Three Cumbrian voluntary groups have been handed a royal seal of approval.

Barrow Women’s Community Matters, the teams who make up the Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association (LDSAMRA) and Cleator Moor-based REACT Foundation have been revealed as recipients of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK.

Considered an MBE for volunteer groups, the Queen’s Award is an annual award made to recognise and reward the most exceptional and innovative groups who provide voluntary-led activities carried out by groups in the community.

It is a highly competitive and prestigious award and only about half of the nominations can expect to win.

Barrow Women’s Community Matters is among the recipients. The charity supports vulnerable women and children by providing practical and emotional support and activities to promote social inclusion. Their services include courses to promote self-confidence, self-esteem and improve life skills.

Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association has also been put forward for the award.

The mountain rescue teams in Cumbria are made up entirely of volunteers and are one of the busiest regions in the country.

Among the 12 teams nominated are Coniston, Cumbria Ore Mines Rescue Unit, Duddon and Furness, Langdale Ambleside, Wasdale and the Lake District Mountain Rescue Search dogs.

The winning organisation will receive a certificate signed by HMThe Queen, a domed glass crystal presented by Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria and an invitation to attend a royal garden party.