THE Queen has paid a special thank you to the hundreds of volunteers who take part in Disability Awareness Day (DAD).

The occasion, due to be held this year on July 9, is Europe's largest disability awareness event and attracts up to 25,000 people.

Earlier this month it was announced that the day had won the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. Hundreds of charities across the country are put forward for the event each year but only a handful are selected for the honour, which recognises the achievements of groups of volunteers.

Judges say the award is only given to those groups where volunteers regularly devote their time to providing an outstanding level of help to other people.

DAD was nominated for the honour by a member of the public.

One regular volunteer is Elaine Ives, of Birchwood Lions Club.

She said everyone involved was thrilled to receive the award, adding: "What a nice way to say thank you. We are all absolutely thrilled about it.

"I think we got the award because the day itself provides a very good service."

DAD promotes information about services, facilities, equipment and the ethos of independence for disabled people, their carers and families.

Dave Thompson, event co-ordinator, said: "This award is in recognition of the hundreds of people, past and present, who have volunteered their support in making a vision into a reality.

"Some of our volunteers arrive on the day, others are involved on a daily basis dealing with the administration and co-ordination and a small team take a week's annual leave to help set up the exhibition ground.

"We all have something in common: we do it because we know it helps to make a difference".

gdunning@guardiangrp.co.uk