A NEW Forest hospice and its army of 240 volunteer helpers have received the royal seal of approval.

Oakhaven Hospice, Lymington, has been awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

It was nominated by people who have either benefited from the facility or witnessed its positive impact on the community.

Volunteers Angela Wood and Vic Lyons went to St James's Palace, London, for a reception attended by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

Mrs Wood, who has helped in the ward, the inpatient unit, the reception area and the kitchen, said: "It's just wonderful, you get far more out than you put in."

Mr Lyons helps in Oakhaven's Lymington shop and also provides administrative support at the hospice.

He said: "I enjoy working with a nice bunch of people and I'm pleased to be able to support the hospice in various ways."

They were joined on their visit to the palace by Carole Reynolds, Oakhaven's human resources director.

The volunteers give a total of 36,000 hours to the hospice each year.

They are among more than 100 groups across the UK to qualify for the award, which aims to honour unsung heroes.

Fiona Mactaggert, minister for the voluntary and community sector, said: "This is well-deserved recognition for some of the thousands of people who are active day in, day out in our communities.

"Their contributions boost local communities and enrich the nation."