TWO groups in Somerset have been honoured with a top award.

Active and In touch in Frome and Yeovil Free Wheelers (YFW) Blood Bikes have received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

The award recognises outstanding work by volunteer groups to benefit their communities.

It was created in 2002 to celebrate The Queen's Golden Jubilee and the recipients are announced every year on June 2 - the anniversary of The Queen's Coronation.

Representatives from the two Somerset groups will receive the award crystal and certificate from Annie Maw, Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, later this summer.

“I am delighted that the work of both Active and In Touch and the Yeovil Freewheelers has been recognised in this way," said Mrs Maw.

"It is a remarkable achievement and fully deserved.

"I very much hope that we will see more excellent groups nominated for the award in the future.”

Active and In touch provides a service to combat isolation and loneliness.

YFW Blood Bikes provides support to hospitals and communities across Somerset, Dorset and Devon 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.