Lions Running Community, a free affiliated club based in Chorley, was awarded King’s Award for volunteering. This is the highest award a local volunteer group can receive in the UK and is equivalent to an MBE.
The club affiliated with British Athletics has been running with the help of volunteers for 12 years and they support the local community with their running and fitness dreams no matter who they are.
Lions pride themselves on ensuring inclusivity in sport and regularly support visually impaired athletes in training, parkruns and races.
About the King’s award
The club is one of only 262 local charities, social enterprises and volunteer groups to receive this prestigious award this year. Their work, along with others across the UK, reminds us of all the ways in which our amazing volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to help the lives of those who People around you become better. The King’s Award for Volunteering aims to recognize the outstanding work of local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.
It was established in 2002 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and after her accession to the throne, Her Majesty emphasized her desire to continue the Award. Recipients are announced each year on November 14. This year’s King’s Award winners are diverse and include volunteer groups from across the UK.
The Lions Running community will receive a crystal award and certificate from Amanda Parker, Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire.
Hear from club coach, Shelby
Shelby Williams, Lions Running Community Coach, said:
“As a club, we are delighted that the work of our team has been recognized and that the hard work and commitment of our volunteers has been rewarded. Our volunteers require no compensation for their time and dedication, so this award is a huge recognition of them. What’s even more special is that the nominations are all made by people in our local community.
“The Lions are at the heart of our local communities and support individuals from all backgrounds to get back to or start running and stay active and healthy, which is so important However, just as important is the camaraderie and sense of community that people get from being part of the Lions and we encourage this as much as we run set.”
