A THORNBURY children’s charity has been recognised for its voluntary work within the community with an award from the Queen.

Jigsaw, which works with more than 160 families across South Gloucestershire with disabled children, has been honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award of its kind given to voluntary groups across the UK.

Charity founder Tor Goodman and trustee chairman Cheryl Jenkinson attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May, but the charity was officially presented with the award by Dame Janet Trotter, the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire during their AGM and fun day at the Ship Hotel in Alveston last Saturday.

More than 100 people, including volunteers and the families the charity supports were in attendance on the day, with a children’s entertainer, bubble machine, lending library games and colouring in giving the younger guests plenty to do as well as go outside and play.

Ms Jenkinson said that because Jigsaw had only been established around five years ago, they were ‘incredibly privileged and honoured’ to receive the award, adding that it would help future plans for the charity.

“Having everyone together for such a pleasant day really emphasises just what a great family Jigsaw is,” she said.

“The fun day had a really nice atmosphere with so many people enjoying themselves, especially when we were presented with the award. That really meant a lot to us.”

The charity is also celebrating news that in September it will be receiving five years of National Lottery funding, totalling £292,000 which will be used to fund two new full-time staff as well as some part-time help.

“This extra funding is fantastic,” said Cheryl. “We will be able to increase the amount of activities we do on a weekly basis.

“It also means we can develop the services we are providing and increasing the amount of families.”

To find out more about Jigsaw, visit jigsawthornbury.org.uk.