A team of volunteers working with Cumbria's young farmers have received a national award for their efforts.

The Cumbria Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs (YFC) were 'honoured' to be given the King's Award for Voluntary Service 2023.

The award is the equivalent of an MBE and is the highest accolade that a voluntary group can be given in the UK.

William Longmire, county chair of Cumbria YFC, said: “For us to be recognised in this way is an incredible achievement and means so much to us all.

"The commitment and enthusiasm of our volunteers is what makes Cumbria YFC so special and we are grateful for their dedication and support which has helped us achieve so much as an organisation.”

The Mail: Alex Sibbald, Cumbria YFC County President, and William Longmire, County Chair of Cumbria YFC.Alex Sibbald, Cumbria YFC County President, and William Longmire, County Chair of Cumbria YFC. (Image: Joanne Mills)

Cumbria YFC is one of 262 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year.

Their work, along with others from across the UK, highlights all the ways volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them.

Cumbria YFC chief officer Joanne Mills said: “Our members today do not all work in farming or agriculture, but our young farmers do all have an interest in rural affairs and are passionate about their local communities and their county.

"Our volunteers are the people who mentor and support our members, helping them to develop and grow into confident and resilient adults who will go on to play a major part in the future of Cumbria.”

The group also received a special message from their Honorary Life Vice President, Olive Clarke.

"The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is a just reflection of the commitment and hard work of the members in supporting the community," she said.

"Always ready to lend a hand - or a tractor - in fine weather or foul, the volunteers are there to help cheerfully and capably."

The Mail: Olive Clarke holding the certificate for Public Speaking that she won in 1938Olive Clarke holding the certificate for Public Speaking that she won in 1938 (Image: Joanne Mills)

Representatives of Cumbria YFC will receive the award from Alex Scott, Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria.

In addition, two volunteers from the group will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace next year, along with other recipients of this year’s award.