Showcase at the Thomas Poole Library

Thrilled and proud

The volunteers at the Thomas Poole Library in Nether Stowey were thrilled, honoured and proud to be given the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest award given to local voluntary groups across the UK, often described as the ‘MBE for volunteer groups’.

On Wednesday 20 May the Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, visited the library, accompanied by the Deputy Lieutenant, Tom Mayberry.

At a packed celebration, Roger Stacey, the first Chair, accepted the crystal trophy and Award certificate signed by the King on behalf of the library, ending his speech with a hearty ‘three cheers’ and hip-hip-hoorays’.

It was a memorable and joyous event, and we were delighted that our guests included representatives from Somerset Library Services, HPC, and local government.

This award belongs to everyone who has supported the library – our volunteers, members, donors, local partners, visitors, and the wider community, who continue to make our library and community hub thrive.

Photos Courtesy of Terry Abbiss