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.
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.
41. Volunteers and carers garden party hosted by the Duchess of Northumberland at The Alnwick Garden. Among the Ponteland guests were representatives from the Brownies and Guides, Breast Cancer Now and St Mary's Church. Picture by Jane Coltman
Among the Ponteland guests were representatives from the Brownies and Guides, Breast Cancer Now and St Mary's Church. Picture by Jane Coltman Photo: Jane Coltman
42. Volunteers and carers garden party hosted by the Duchess of Northumberland at The Alnwick Garden. Representatives from the County Blind Association and the North East Ambulance Service. Picture by Jane Coltman
Representatives from the County Blind Association and the North East Ambulance Service. Picture by Jane Coltman Photo: Jane Coltman
43. Volunteers and carers garden party hosted by the Duchess of Northumberland at The Alnwick Garden. NHS young volunteer Alice Thompson and her mum Rachel. Picture by Jane Coltman
NHS young volunteer Alice Thompson and her mum Rachel. Picture by Jane Coltman Photo: Jane Coltman
44. Volunteers and carers garden party hosted by the Duchess of Northumberland at The Alnwick Garden. Representatives from North East Red Squirrels with Deputy Lieutenant Rev. Judith Grieve. Picture by Jane Coltman
Representatives from North East Red Squirrels with Deputy Lieutenant Rev. Judith Grieve. Picture by Jane Coltman Photo: Jane Coltman