IN PICTURES: Duchess of Northumberland hosts party for carers and volunteers at Alnwick Garden

Clair and Nick Lewis with Michael and Holly Stafford, all from Alnwick Round Table.
Picture by Jane Coltman — Clair and Nick Lewis with Michael and Holly Stafford, all from Alnwick Round Table. Picture by Jane Coltman

A special garden party was hosted by The Duchess of Northumberland to thank carers and volunteers in the county.

The event was laid on by The Duchess in her role as Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland to recognise the valuable contribution that volunteers and carers make to the local community.

The garden party was staged at The Alnwick Garden and 300 volunteers and carers were invited, along with their partners/guests.

Aileen and David Barrass from Homes for Northumberland.
Picture by Jane Coltman — Aileen and David Barrass from Homes for Northumberland. Picture by Jane Coltman

Fittingly, the event took place during National Carers Week, which aims to raise awareness of the UK’s six-million unpaid carers, as well as celebrating the incredible contribution they make.

During the event, and on behalf of the Queen, the Duchess presented The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service to volunteers from Bell View in Belford.

The Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK for outstanding work done in their local communities.