Royal recognition for Blackpool community group presented with The King's Award for Voluntary Service

A group which aims to inspire young people in Blackpool and across the Fylde coast has been recognised with a top award.

United Youth Alliance, formerly known as The Washington Group and founded by Deborah Terras in 2018, has been honoured with The King's Award for Voluntary Service.

The organisation works with the public, private and community sectors to create opportunities for young people, supporting events such as International Women's Day and Blackpool Youth Pride.

The award was presented at a celebration held at Blackpool Tower where social action ambassadors Ella Humphries and Evie Whitham also launched the Young Person’s Coastal Social Action Group.

Jake Adams, a director of United Youth Alliance (UYA), said: "We are profoundly thankful for this prestigious recognition and remain steadfast to nurturing positive change in our community, collaborating with our partners to continuing our mission of empowering our community and driving positive change for years to come, united in our commitment to make a difference."

Andy Charles, of Blackpool Pride of Place, said: "Over the last five years, UYA have demonstrated the true value of community development and partnership working, that supports the opportunities and issues impacting the lives of people across the Fylde Coast. "

United Youth Alliance is one of 262 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year.  The King’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups and was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee.