PEOPLE in Helensburgh and Lomond are being encouraged to nominate outstanding volunteer-led groups for the King's Award for Voluntary Service.

The prestigious accolade, equivalent to an MBE, recognises the extraordinary contributions of volunteer groups to communities across the UK.

The award acknowledges the significant impact these groups have in improving the lives of others and their communities.

Past recipients of the award include the Loch Lomond Rescue Boat, who were recognised in 2015, and other Dunbartonshire winners such as the Clydebank Asbestos Group and the Bankie Talk talking newspaper service.

(Image: Supplied)

To be eligible for nomination, groups must have been active in volunteering for at least three years, benefiting communities either within the UK or overseas.

Nominations for the 2025 awards opened on September 1 and must be submitted by December 1.

Detailed information on eligibility criteria and the straightforward nomination process can be found at kavs.dcms.gov.uk/.

Nominations must be submitted by external sources.

More than half of the group members must be volunteers with the right of residence in the UK, and the group must provide a specific local benefit.

Groups primarily focused on fund-raising for charities or those solely aiding animals are not eligible for the award.

Anne Smillie DL, chair of the Dunbartonshire Panel for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, said: “There are a huge number of unsung heroes in Dunbartonshire and it is important they are recognised.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to acknowledge and celebrate the selfless efforts of our volunteer groups across Dunbartonshire.”