The call has gone to find Dumfries and Galloway’s Coronation Champions. To mark the forthcoming royal event, the Coronation Champions’ Awards aims to celebrate and recognise volunteers who have made an exceptional difference in their communities.
Her Majesty, The Queen Consort is a long-standing advocate of volunteering, and the Royal Voluntary Service is organising the awards to acknowledge the contributions of volunteers across the UK.
There are eight categories of awards, from volunteering in health or animal welfare, to supporting the environment or sports and heritage. Judges especially want to celebrate rising stars as ‘Young Coronation Champions’ (aged 14–18).
The awards will close on 2 April, and 500 Coronation Champions will be announced before the Coronation weekend. Visit www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/coronation-champions-awards to nominate a volunteer.
This is the first Coronation in 70 years and, with just two months to go, local groups are being asked to start thinking about how they can mark the coronation of King Charles III.
Local communities are also urged to start planning for The Coronation Big Lunch, inviting neighbours to share friendship, food and fun on Sunday 7 May.
Her Majesty, The Queen Consort is Patron of the event which brings people together in community and friendship. CoronationBigLunch.com is full of ideas and practical advice about how to get a Coronation Big Lunch party started.
Then there is the Big Help Out on Monday 8 May. That day will highlight the positive impact that volunteering has on communities across the nation. From rolling up your sleeves to picking litter, to volunteering at a food bank, the Palace says it is a chance to lend a hand in a neighbourhood. Visit the website for more information: https://thebighelpout.org.uk
The Lord-Lieutenants, His Majesty The King’s personal representatives in Dumfries and Galloway, are encouraging local groups to make the Coronation weekend a very special celebration.
Aileen Brewis, Lord-Lieutenant for Wigtown said: “We have many amazing volunteers here in Wigtownshire who give up their precious time to help others and improve the environment. I know they don’t do it for money or medals and therefore it’s really important that we nominate them for the Coronation Champions Awards to show them just how much they are appreciated.”
The Lord Sinclair, Lord-Lieutenant for The Stewartry of Kirkcudbright said: “I can think of no better way for us all to celebrate the Coronation, than by recognising our many unsung volunteers, and by bringing together the communities in our region for a Big Lunch – I’d encourage everyone to get involved!”
Fiona Armstrong, Lord-Lieutenant of Dumfries, said: “Scotland has a proud history of volunteering. Helping neighbours is what we are good at, and I know we will be marking this royal milestone in style.”
