St Joseph’s Players, based in Leigh, has received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour for volunteer groups in the UK and equivalent to an MBE.
Gabrielle Fitzsimons, chairperson of St Joseph’s Players, said: “We are absolutely thrilled and honoured to receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
“It is an incredible testament to everyone in the society who gives up their time so generously to promote arts in our town.”
The award recognises the group’s longstanding contributions to the performing arts in Leigh.
It is among just 231 organisations nationally to receive the award in 2025.
A spokesperson for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service said: “St Joseph’s Players’ work reminds us of all the ways fantastic volunteers are contributing to their local area and working to make life better for those around them.”
Founded in 2002 to mark the late Queen’s Golden Jubilee, the award has been continued by King Charles III.
Winners are announced on the King’s birthday, November 14.
St Joseph’s Players will receive a commemorative crystal and certificate, and will be invited to a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in summer.
She said: “We have been working tirelessly to save St Joseph’s Hall from closure and this recognition from King Charles makes all those efforts worthwhile.”