A GWENT volunteer group is one of two in Wales to be honoured by The Queen today.

Thornwell Football Club, Chepstow, is among 130 groups to receive the The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the MBE for groups of volunteers who work in their local community for the benefit of others.

The club offers young people living in a socially-deprived area access to football activities.

The award sets the national benchmark for excellence in volunteering, with the work of those awarded being judged to be of the highest standard.

Those receiving the award in Wales were selected from 413 groups nominated by members of the public who have been helped personally or witnessed the benefits of a group’s work in their community.

Recipients receive a certificate signed by the Queen and an exclusive commemorative crystal, presented by Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenants in the counties at special ceremonies arranged by the lieutenancy offices.