Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities is to receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service [QAVS], the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK..
Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities was founded almost 48 years ago. From a few concerts over a 6-week period, it has grown into an extensive and varied programme of events, promoting Kirkcudbright as a vibrant tourist destination and developing the community environment. Examples of its events include Producers’ Market, The Vintage Fair, Riding of the Marches, Country Fair, Arts and Crafts Trail, Historical Walks, and Scottish Nights. The Annual Tattoo and Firework Display is the main event and the highlight of the group’s year.
The QAVS recognises outstanding work by volunteer groups to benefit their local communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee. Recipients are announced on 2 June each year, the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation.
Representatives of Kirkcudbright Summer Festivities will receive the award from Lord Lieutenant of The Stewartry of Kirkcudbright, Patsy Gilroy, later this summer. In July 2021, 2 volunteers from the group will attend a garden party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, in Edinburgh. in July 2021.
Lord Lieutenant Patsy Gilroy said: “I’m absolutely delighted that the work of Kirkcudbright Summer Activities has been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. During our assessment we were impressed by the commitment and dedication of its volunteers.”
Nominations for the 2021 QAVS close on 25 September 2020.
