A LOCAL charity has been recognised by the Queen.

The Gratton Trust was awarded The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service on September 11.

Set up in 1997, the charity's aim was to manage the recreational green space, known as the Gratton, in Sutton Scotney.

21 years later the grounds feature tennis courts, football pitches, an outdoor gym, a pavilion and a play area.

Volunteers from the Trust have to raise £15,000 a year to cover annual running costs.

Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, presented the 2018 Queen's Award for Voluntary Service at a public ceremony.

Chairman John Polak collected the reward on behalf of the Trust.

He said: "We actually knew back in may. I went to the Buckingham Palace Garden Party with Judy which was a truly magical place to be.

"I was thinking at the time that receiving the award was nice and all, but the more I researched, the more the honour grew.

"The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire said it was a very difficult award to get because only five groups in Hampshire were given.

"Shaking his hand was like shaking the hand of The Queen. He is her representative."

The mayor of Winchester was also present at the ceremony.

The Gratton Trust is always looking for new volunteers.

To volunteer contact grattontrust4@gmail.com.

Donations can be made at the Trust's website.