A TAUNTON charity has received the King’s Award from the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset.

Refugee Aid From Taunton was presented the award at a ceremony held yesterday.

The event was also attended by the Mayor of Taunton, Councillor Nick O'Donnell.

A message from the charity’s Facebook page read: “This award is for our work in the UK and the partnership working we have created over the past eight and a half years that have helped thousands of individuals with so many wonderful and brilliant organisations.

It belongs to all the trustees and volunteers, present and past, who have come through our doors and become part of our family.

“Each giving up their time, whether hours, days or years to look to ensure we can tackle inequalities across the South West and make our communities a better place to live in and for individuals to know there is support and care there.

“We hope you can all celebrate with us and take a moment to reflect on your part in this amazing journey and all the many people we have helped, thousands of items saved from landfill, and how we will continue to look to support those at home and abroad in need.”

A spokesperson for Taunton Town Council said: “The Mayor of Taunton was delighted to witness the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset present Refugee Aid From Taunton with the King’s Award yesterday.

“Congratulations to the trustees and volunteers for their unwavering dedication in supporting those in need both locally and globally.”