Isle of Wight Search and Rescue receive King's Award

The award is the highest honour for a local voluntary group in the UK, equivalent to an MBE.

This recognises the group's outstanding work within the community.

Formed in 2011, the organisation is comprised of 32 professional volunteers and relies solely on donations and grants.

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Chair and founder of WightSAR, Dean Terrett, was thrilled by the recognition.

He said: "This has been achieved through the dedication of WightSAR’s volunteers.

"This award marks a milestone in excellence and recognition for the team's work.

"As you can imagine, the team is elated to receive such recognition."

He also thanked the Isle of Wight community for their continued support.

The KAVS was established in 2002 to celebrate the late Queen's Golden Jubilee, and acknowledges the exceptional efforts of local volunteer groups across the country.

With the accession of King Charles, the award continues to celebrate the hard work of voluntary groups.

The award's name was changed in 2022 to coincide with the accession of The King.

To learn more about WightSAR and its work, visit its website at wightsar.org