A charity supporting brain injury survivors has been awarded the King's Award for Voluntary Service.

Headway Northumberland, formed in 2018, was recognised for its contribution to improving the lives of those affected by brain injuries and neurological conditions.

The award is the highest honour a community-based voluntary group can receive in the UK, equivalent to an MBE.

The charity operates community neuro hubs in Ashington, Alnwick, Berwick, Hexham and Morpeth.

These hubs provide friendship, social interaction, support, information, and signposting for survivors and their families.

They also organise workshops, trips, and activities for their members.

An event celebrating the volunteers was held at The Torch Centre in Hexham on November 15, where Julie Cordon and Ron Payne received the award crystal and certificate from Dr Caroline Pryer, Lord-Lieutenant of Northumberland.

David Howcroft, a member, volunteer, and trustee, said: "Headway Northumberland allows me to have meaningful interactions with a wide variety of people who are interested in supporting those who have experienced a head injury.

"For me personally, it is the co-constructed conversation in a relaxed and safe environment that allows me to make progress."

Both the team and the charity's board include people who have experience of brain injury.

Julie Cordon, chairwoman of the board of trustees, said: "I am delighted that Headway Northumberland has been recognised with this prestigious award.

"As one of the largest counties in the country, with rural, coastal, and industrial areas, it is only through the dedication, hard work, and passion of our volunteers that we can offer such valued support to brain injury survivors and people with neurological conditions across the county."

The Duchess of Northumberland, Jane Percy, who is a Headway Northumberland patron, said: "Many, many congratulations on being awarded a KAVS.

"What a fantastic achievement which is so well deserved."

Two volunteers from Headway Northumberland will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May and June 2025, alongside other recipients of this year's award.

Ms Cordon said: "I’m so proud of all of our volunteers and I look forward to the expansion and development of our services in the future, working alongside them."