A Kidderminster and Stourport theatre company which provides opportunities for adults with disabilities has been awarded a prestigious King's Award for Voluntary Service.
Wheely Different Theatre Company, a group of volunteer performers based in Worcestershire, have earned the highest award that a local voluntary group can receive in the UK.
The King's Award, which was created in 2002 to celebrate Her Majesty the late Queen's Golden Jubilee, is equivalent to an MBE and recognises the outstanding work by local volunteer groups to support their communities.
Wheely Different provide performance opportunities for adults who need extra support due to different abilities and are well known for their creative and inspiring productions.
The productions and workshops aim to help improve confidence and self-esteem through the power of dance and drama.
Group leader Elaine Kirby is a qualified ParaDance UK wheelchair and para dance instructor and Keep Fit Association teacher who specialises in exercise for disabled adults.
Her daughter Eleanor Mouzer holds a degree in Performing Arts and oversees drama productions.
Ms Kirby, who received the KFA Volunteer Teacher of the Year Award 2023, said: "I am so delighted the work of the group has been recognised. Although it is free to join us, part of the membership is on the basis that you are a team player and we all work hard to meet our aims.
"Without the volunteers working together, the show would not go on.
"This award is tribute to all their efforts. Both Eleanor and myself could not be prouder of what everyone has achieved so far."
Living with a disability can isolate people so the group also provide social outings to theatres, meals and attractions.
All who attend WDTC are volunteers and the group work together as a team which promotes understanding of each others needs.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Mrs Beatrice Grant, will present the Wheely Different Theatre Company with their award crystal and certificate.
She said: "It’s absolutely wonderful that The Wheely Different Theatre Company have been recognised for the work they do and the differences they make to their local communities.
"They are both truly inspirational, and I look forward to seeing them to present them with their award in the near future."
Two volunteers from the group will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May and June 2025, along with other recipients of this year’s Award.
Recipients are announced annually on November 14, The King’s Birthday, with 281 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups receiving the award this year.
If you know of a voluntary organisation who go above and beyond in what they do please contact the Worcestershire Lieutenancy at lieutenancy@worcestershire.gov.uk or visit https://kavs.dcms.gov.uk/
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