A volunteer group in Buckingham has received recognition from the King for its work improving the countryside.
The King recognized Brill Village Community Herd for enhancing the countryside, presenting them with the Kings Award for Voluntary Service.
Members of the non-profit group have been working to replenish and protect Greenland.
The KAVS is the highest award a local voluntary group in the UK can receive, equivalent to an MBE.
King Charles III presented the distinguished honor to 262 social companies and volunteer organizations.
Members use a herd of native Dexter cattle on the common to conserve and enhance the area’s biodiversity.
BVCH chose Dexters as ‘cows for the job’ for their size and ability to graze rugged terrain, the organization stated.
Since grazing began on the common, members have noticed it has enabled native flora and fauna such as orchids, birds-foot trefoil and ladies bedstraw, lizards and butterflies to return.
Pat Stone, a founding board member of BVCH, expressed pride in receiving the prestigious award, recognizing volunteers’ tireless efforts and commitment.
Additionally, Stone highlighted the remarkable transformation of Brill Common’s habitat and wildlife over the past decade.
Representatives of BVCH will receive the award crystal and certificate from Countess Howe, Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire.
Two BVCH volunteers will attend a Buckingham Palace Garden party next summer with other recipients of this year’s award.
The society was formed to repair damage done to Brill Common by many years of neglect and to restore the wide range of flowers, birds, insects and invertebrates.
The voluntary group has existed in Brill for a number of years.
