DISTINGUISHED guests joined trustees and volunteers at Frensham Pond Sailability on a bright, sunny day last Thursday to receive the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The charity, which has provided thousands of sailing opportunities for people with disabilities and long-term illnesses since 2001, was bestowed the highest award a voluntary group can receive in May and welcomed the Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux, last week to present the honour.

Mr More-Molyneux, accompanied by the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant, Bill Biddell, brought the official grant from the Queen and an engraved glass trophy to present to Frensham Pond Sailability. It was formally received by two young helpers, Hattie Owen and Lucy Edgar.

A number of local dignitaries also attended the event, including the High Sheriff of Surrey Richard Whittington, the Mayor of Waverley, Chris Storey, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Farnham, John and Gillian Ward. The two assessors for the award, Rosham Bailey and Jenny Griffiths also attended.

In his formal welcome, Frensham Sailing Club commodore Colin Dutton explained how important Sailability has been in the life of the club since 2001.

“Sailability enhances the lives of many people and we’re very proud of it,” he said, addressing the club’s guests. “Today’s special event makes our pride shine even brighter, and we thank you for making that so.”

The Deputy Lord-Lieutenant then read out the wording on the Royal Certificate, and the Lord-Lieutenant presented the award.

Mr More-Molyneux said: “One of the huge privileges of my job is that I am able to visit places like Frensham Ponds on a day like today and meet so many wonderful people who are contributing so much hard work and free time to the benefit of others less fortunate than ourselves.

“This has been a massive collective team effort by committed volunteers, which has made a significant difference in the community and has enhanced the quality of life for many people both able bodied and disabled. The club fully deserve their nomination.

“There were only six Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Service this year in Surrey, chosen not by a Surrey committee but at the very top, and that underlines your commitment to others and all your hard work. I would like to congratulate you and thank you on behalf of Surrey for all that you do.”

Responding on behalf of Sailability, chairman of the trustees John Richardson, expressed everyone’s appreciation for a really special honour. He concluded by recognising that it was all started by Ted Bonner back in 1982 when, through Farnham and District Sports Association for the Disabled, sailing for people with disabilities began at Frensham.

Following the formal speeches everyone adjourned to the clubhouse for a celebratory drink and some light refreshments. While everyone was relaxing they were able to enjoy a display of sailing, which showed off the setting to perfection and the skills of some disabled sailors.