VOLUNTEERS at a Prestatyn charity shop have been awarded one of the highest honours in their field.

The Claire House Hospice shop on the High Street sent seven volunteers to join more than 200 others from branches across the Merseyside and North Wales to receive The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service at an event held at Leasowe castle on the Wirral.

The charity shop, which has 26 volunteers and was formerly located further up the High Street, has operated in the town for 10 years on behalf of the hospice in Bebington.

Shop manager, Nickie Dettlaff said: "I didn't attend because I wanted the award ceremony be a day out purely for the volunteers and to celebrate their achievements. They got treated so well and were given afternoon tea at the castle.

"I'm so proud of each and every one of them here in Prestatyn. They are the most amazing people I've ever met and the time they give, the care, the enthusiasm and dedication to the hospice and children is fantastic."

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, presented by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside David McDonnell, is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK.

The charity, which provides help and days out for the families of seriously and terminally ill children, was selected for its teamwork, fundraising and support across Liverpool and North Wales.

Mayor of Prestatyn Cllr Anton Sampson said: "I am delighted that such a hardworking group have been recognised in such a way and I would personally like to thank everybody who willingly give up so much of their precious time to help others".