This award is ‘the MBE for volunteer groups’, the highest award for volunteer groups in the UK, and is recognition of the group’s exceptional commitment to both the environment and their community over the past 20 years.
Having carried out more than 150 river clean-ups since 2004, Grantham RiverCare is one of Keep Britain Tidy’s longest-running volunteer groups. From its beginnings in picking litter along the banks of the River Witham, this group of dedicated volunteers now also manage habitats, monitor and protect wildlife, and inspire others to get involved in their vital efforts.
David Martin and Ian Simmons, Grantham RiverCareThrough volunteering, we’re making a real difference - improving our local environment, supporting wildlife and helping people feel proud of where they live. Our work supports Keep Britain Tidy’s mission to reduce litter, care for nature, and empower communities.
Grantham RiverCare’s co-leads, David Martin and Ian Simmons, shared their thanks and pride:
“This award belongs to every single volunteer who has helped over the past two decades - and especially to our founder, John Knowles, whose vision started it all. It’s a huge honour that celebrates the passion, teamwork, and dedication of our group.
“Through volunteering, we’re making a real difference - improving our local environment, supporting wildlife, and helping people feel proud of where they live. Our work supports Keep Britain Tidy’s mission to reduce litter, care for nature, and empower communities.”
The group was nominated by local residents and the award will be officially presented to the group by the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Toby Dennis, on behalf of King Charles III.
The RiverCare & BeachCare programme is run by Keep Britain Tidy in partnership with Anglian Water. Stretching from the Humber Estuary to the Essex coast, the programme supports communities caring for a wide variety of ‘blue spaces’.
Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, Chief Executive of Keep Britain Tidy, said: “We are thrilled that Grantham RiverCare has been given a King’s Award. Their passion for protecting the River Witham and its green spaces is a real inspiration. Their hard work protects wildlife, keeps the river healthy, and brings the community together. They truly show what it means to love where you live, and this recognition is richly deserved.”
Feeling inspired? If you are interested in getting involved with the RiverCare & BeachCare programme, or perhaps setting up a litter-picking group where you are, why not visit our Get Involved section to find out more?