Somer Valley FM has received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, recognising its contribution to community broadcasting.
The award was formally presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, at a celebration event in Midsomer Norton.
Often described as the “MBE for volunteer groups,” the award recognises the contributions made by volunteers who have helped shape the station into a voice for the local community.
Somer Valley FM is one of only three organisations in Somerset to receive this honour in the most recent King’s Birthday Honours List.
The evening was opened by station founder Dom Chambers, who described the event as “a wonderful celebration of the awesome power and impact a group of volunteers can have on community life.” Also present were local dignitaries including the Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Martyn Plant.
Mr Saddiq praised the station for its work with local schools and young people, calling it “a great example of what this award represents.” He noted that over 500 volunteers have contributed to the station’s development, helping thousands of young people build skills and confidence.
Dom Chambers and Pete Helmore, the station’s first volunteer, accepted the award on behalf of the station.
Dom paid tribute to the community of volunteers who have sustained the station over the years: “This recognition is for all the volunteers — past and present — who have given their time, energy and creativity to make this station a trusted voice for the Somer Valley community.
“It’s proof that when people come together to serve a collective mission, incredible things happen.”