A group of volunteers who have spent the past five years helping to care for a Pembrokeshire site have been honoured with an invitation to Buckingham Palace.
Five members of Carew Castle's Grounds and Site Maintenance Volunteer group attended one of this year's King's Garden Parties after the group was nominated in recognition of its outstanding voluntary work.
David Clarke, Helen Clarke, Chris Williams, Lorna Alexander and Claire Phillips represented the nine-strong volunteer group at the Garden Party, which was attended by members of the Royal Family including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.
The group gives one day each week to Carew Castle, helping to look after the Scheduled Ancient Monument, its grounds and the associated Tidal Mill.
Over the past five years, their work has ranged from conservation and biodiversity projects to improving public access, refurbishing historic milling equipment and supporting the wider care of the Castle's historic landscape.
This work has helped extend the visitor season at Carew, bringing more people to the site outside the traditional summer months and supporting longer, employment opportunities in a seasonal tourism setting.
Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, said:
“Our wonderful volunteers turn up week after week in all weathers, giving their time, skills and energy to help care for a place that means so much to Pembrokeshire. So much of what they do happens quietly, behind the scenes, but visitors see the results everywhere, from the grounds and access improvements to the events and seasonal programmes that bring the Castle to life. We were thrilled that members of the group were invited to Buckingham Palace. It was a very special recognition of their dedication, and richly deserved.”
The King's Garden Parties are held each year to recognise people who have made significant contributions to public service, community life and voluntary work.
