South West Coast Path volunteers receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Volunteers of the South West Coast Path Association, the charity dedicated to preserving and enhancing the iconic South West Coast Path, have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2024. This prestigious accolade, which is the highest honour a UK voluntary group can receive and is equivalent to an MBE, recognises the extraordinary contributions of volunteers who support and maintain the 630-mile coastal trail.

The South West Coast Path Association, founded over 50 years ago by volunteers, has grown alongside the trail's evolution into one of Britain’s National Trails, officially designated in 1978. Today, more than 150 active volunteers contribute to the charity's mission to protect and improve the pathway for the nearly 9 million annual visitors who explore its scenic routes, from Minehead to Poole.

Volunteers play various essential roles in the charity’s operations. Local volunteers monitor and report on trail conditions, while area volunteers manage longer sections, coordinating through a Path Committee to fund and oversee improvements. The charity, led by a board of volunteer trustees, raises approximately £1 million annually to support trail upkeep and accessibility initiatives. Additionally, younger volunteers contribute through internships, and others work alongside local disability groups to enhance access for all.

“We are deeply honoured that our volunteers have been recognised for their ongoing dedication to preserving one of Britain’s most cherished National Trails,” said Hilary Dinsdale, Chair of the South West Coast Path Association. “This award celebrates every volunteer, past and present, who has helped make the South West Coast Path the national treasure it is today.”

Julian Gray, Charity Director, commented: “We’re incredibly proud that our volunteers have received national recognition for their amazing work in protecting one of the world’s great trails.”

The South West Coast Path Association is among 281 charitable organisations and volunteer groups across the UK to receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service this year. Representatives from the charity will receive the award from David Fursdon, Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, and two of the association’s volunteers have been invited to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in 2025 to celebrate the achievement.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is presented annually to organisations across the UK to honour exceptional volunteer work that enriches local communities. This year’s award demonstrates the invaluable contributions made by volunteers in advancing local projects and improving lives.

For more information on the South West Coast Path Association and to support their mission to maintain and enhance the South West Coast Path, visit www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk.