TWO dedicated community groups in Herefordshire have had their efforts recognised by the Queen.

Christmas has come early for the Bromyard Light Brigade after winning the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The group is a shining example of community spirit having installed and maintained the town’s Christmas lights for 46 years.

The brigade works under the auspices of the Bromyard Chamber of Commerce but never charges for its services.

BLB member Roger Wilkins said the accolade came as a “great surprise” and owed much to the group’s founders.

He said: “We knew that a member of the local community nominated us but we didn’t think for a moment we’d get an award.

“We are thrilled to have received this prestigious honour for the work we do every year.

“But we also especially remember those well-known Bromyard volunteers no longer with us, who had the foresight to start this local tradition in the mid 60s.”

The brigade has received many awards over the decades and also works closely with the Blackpool illuminations team.

It will receive a certificate signed by the Queen and a commemorative crystal, presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire.

Members have also received an invitation to attend a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace later this year.

à Meanwhile the team behind a village shop near Leominster is also heading to the palace after winning the same award.

Yarpole Community Shop Association brought its community together after the last village store closed in 2004.

Seven board members and dozens more volunteers now work at the re-opened shop and Post Office in the church building.

Chairman Dr Julian Stokes said his group was thrilled to receive the award.

Some 413 groups were nominated for this year’s Queen’s Award, the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary groups.