Twickenham's Sea Cadets unit, TS Saumarez, has been awarded the King's Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) 2025, the highest honour given to voluntary groups in the UK and considered the equivalent of an MBE.

The award recognises the unit's long-standing commitment to giving young people aged 10 to 18 life-changing opportunities inspired by the customs and traditions of the Royal Navy.

Twickenham Sea Cadets is one of 232 voluntary organisations across the UK to receive the accolade this year.

The award highlights exceptional groups whose work strengthens local communities and improves the lives of those around them.

The King's Award for Voluntary Service was created in 2002 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee and continues under King Charles III. Recipients are announced each year on 14 November, the King's birthday.

Representatives from Twickenham Sea Cadets will receive their award crystal and certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE, in the coming months.

In addition, two volunteers will be invited to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in May or June 2026.

Twickenham Sea Cadets is one of 232 voluntary organisations across the UK to receive the accolade this year (credit: Image supplied).

Lt (SCC) Roger Middleton RNR, Commanding Officer of TS Saumarez, said the recognition reflects many years of dedication from the unit's volunteers.

"This award is recognition of the hard work by our volunteers over a long period of time to provide our young people with meaningful and very often life-changing experiences. I am very proud that their hard work has been recognised," he said.

Award-winning groups this year range from volunteer dog walkers helping to keep local areas clean in Kincardineshire, to a Hampshire charity offering flying experiences for people with disabilities, and community organisations supporting veterans in the Welsh Valleys.

A volunteer-run heritage railway in Belfast is also among the honourees.

READ MORE: Twickenham's Allianz Stadium to host first-ever Nations Championship Finals Weekend in 2026.

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