MEMBERS of the Bisley Community have been presented with the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

More than 100 members take their garden waste to a designated site in Bisley and every year around 50 tonnes of this waste is transformed into compost, which is then used by residents.

The award was given to just 103 UK volunteering groups this year – for devoting their time for the benefit of others – and sets the national benchmark for excellence in volunteering.

Lesley Greene, from the scheme's management committee, said: "We are delighted to receive this award.

"The project saves villagers a round trip of around 20 miles to the nearest county council-run household recycling centre at Horsley."

Bisley Community Composting Scheme received a certificate signed by the Queen and an exclusive commemorative crystal, presented by Her Majesty's representative in Gloucestershire at a special ceremony.

The group also received an invitation for representatives to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in the summer.