Three Norfolk volunteer charity groups which devote their time to helping others were presented with a Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.
The awards to the BUILD Charity, Reach for a Star and Wymondham Dementia Group were handed over by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk, Richard Jewson at an event held at The Great Hospital in Norwich.
The Lord-Lieutenant said it was an appropriate venue for the ceremony.
'The hospital was founded in 1249 during the reign of King Henry the third. It was set up initially to care for the clergy of the diocese and soon after for the poor. Deserving scholars at the nearby grammar school were also given a meal everyday.
'For all these centuries The Great Hospital has been caring for those in need, adapting its services to the requirements of the times.'
The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service recognises the vital role played by unsung volunteers in the community, and emphasises the importance of continuing to acknowledge their work.
Each of the groups received a commemorative crystal gift and a certificate, signed by Her Majesty The Queen, in recognition of their work.
The BUILD Charity has provided community-based social, leisure and learning opportunities for people with disabilities in Norfolk since 1967.
Deputy-Lieutenant Keith Skipper, who read a citation for the charity, said the organisation took its cue from inspirational and hard working leader James Kearns.
He said: 'A key feature of the BUILD philosophy is to keep their events and activities as normal as possible for all taking part.'
The citation for Reach for a Star, which provides equipment and life changing experiences for disabled children with life limiting or life threatening illnesses, was delivered by Deputy-Lieutenant Melinda Parker.
She said: 'Reach for a Star is a young charity of four years which has already made a significant contribution to the quality of care given to life altered or life limited children and their parents.'
Deputy-Lieutenant Alex de Bunsen described the Wymondham Dementia Group as 'one of the most impressive we have ever seen'.
The group provides care and support for around 84 sufferers and their carers.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here