Derry's St Columb's Cathedral volunteers awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service

St Columb’s Cathedral Volunteers has been honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), an accolade that acknowledges exemplary contributions by local volunteer groups to the betterment of their  communities. 

A dedicated group of volunteers at St Columb’s Cathedral has been honoured with The KAVS  for 2025. This prestigious recognition represents the highest accolade available to local voluntary groups in the United Kingdom and is considered equivalent to an MBE.

The award acknowledges their outstanding contributions to social cohesion, community relations, and  tourism within a socially deprived area of Northern Ireland. Notably, this distinction is conferred as a lifetime honour. This recognition underscores the dedication of individuals who have supported various aspects of Cathedral life over the years.

It further honours those who have welcomed visitors  from both the local community and abroad to this historic church. All who have invested  their time and effort in preserving the Cathedral as a prominent landmark of the city are part of this distinguished achievement and may take significant pride in their contributions.

A spokesperson said: "The Cathedral gratefully acknowledges the invaluable contributions of its dedicated volunteers, whose ongoing support is essential to maintaining its status as the 'Jewel in the Crown' of Derry/Londonderry's tourism sector. We extend our sincere appreciation for your exemplary service. 

St Columb’s Cathedral is one of 231 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award   this year. Their work, along with others from across the UK, reminds us of all the ways fantastic volunteers are  contributing to their local communities and working to make life better for those around them."