A charity helping rough sleepers in Dorset has been awarded the most prestigious award a local voluntary group can receive.

The Weymouth-based Bus Shelter Dorset, which provides shelter, warmth, food and support to those on the streets, has been presented with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

Equivalent to an MBE, the award aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.

It is the highest and most prestigious award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK. This is one of the last Queen's Awards and was awarded during the late monarch's reign. From now on they will be King's Awards.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, recommended the charity for the award - and presented it at the charity's static location on Mercery Road, Weymouth.

He said: "The Bus Shelter Dorset and its volunteers have done an enormous amount for rough sleepers and those in trouble in the area. There was a considerable problem of vulnerable individuals sleeping rough and on the street in Weymouth and Portland.

"Emily and her group of volunteers had a good idea and it's grown like Topsy since it came to fruition. The Bus Shelter Dorset is now a terrific asset to Dorset and particularly, Weymouth and Portland.

"They have rescued vulnerable people off the streets and set them on a path to a positive future of productive happiness. I hope this award goes some way to show them how much of a difference they have made in this community".

After receiving the crystal award and certificate from Mr Campbell, Emily McCarron, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer of The Bus Shelter Dorset, said: "Without our volunteers, The Bus Shelter Dorset would not be where it is today and I am truly grateful to each and everyone who has shared our vision and supported the charity and our guests.

"Our staff and volunteers go above and beyond to provide compassionate care and support to our guests and the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service is a well-deserved recognition of their invaluable contributions and the significance of their role in our community."

If you would like further information or to learn how to support the work of The Bus Shelter Dorset by volunteering or with a donation or supplies, email Emily McCarron at thebusshelterdorset@gmail.com