Amberley Museum volunteers thrilled to receive prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Amberley Museum has more than 350 active volunteers who restore, maintain, operate and demonstrate exhibits to visitors. The museum is host to this thriving volunteer community, without whom it would not operate.

Amberley Museum arose from a concept created in the 1970s by a group of architects, surveyors, planners and museum professionals who felt there was a need for a centre in the south-east where industrial and social history could be conserved and interpreted in an active working environment.

It showcases and preserves the rural, transport, industrial and communications history of the south of England for the learning and enjoyment of today’s visitors and future generations. The museum has a strong connection with the community, providing opportunities for volunteers to support the museum’s goals and enjoy the associated social environment.

Shoreham volunteers honoured to receive King’s Award for Voluntary Service, one of only four in West Sussex for 2023

Amberley Museum is one of four in West Sussex and 262 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups across the country to receive the prestigious award this year.

Richard Vernon, chair of trustees, said: “I am thrilled that the dedication, commitment and contribution of Amberley Museum Volunteers has been recognised through the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service. I am always struck by the variety of skills and knowledge our volunteers bring to the museum, which are shared with other volunteers and to the wider visiting public.”

The award reminds people of all the ways fantastic volunteers are contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee and, following his accession, His Majesty The King emphasised his desire to continue the award.

Amberley Museum will receive the award crystal and certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant, Lady Emma Barnard. In addition, two volunteers from Amberley Museum will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace, along with other recipients of this year’s award.