A committed group of volunteers who serve up support to sick people have landed a thank-you from the Queen.

St John's Hospice helpers have been chosen for the 2004 Queen's Award for Voluntary Service for maintaining the quality of life of terminally ill people through a range of activities.

The Slyne Road charity in Lancaster is one of four organisations out of 110 in the country to win.

It was nominated by people who have benefited from its work and seen the positive effect on the community.

Representatives from the Lord Lieutenant of Lancaster and the Home Office visited the centre and spent time with the volunteers and hospice managers to see what they do to help people.

Volunteers Peggy Long, Irene Austin and Anita Puckett have been invited to attend a reception at St James' Palace on July 19 to receive the award.

"St John's has over 150 volunteers freely giving their time providing a whole range of services at the hospice," says Clive Shelley, the general manager.

"We have a further 80 helping us in our charity shops in Lancaster and Morecambe. We are indebted to a whole host of individuals and groups in the community who support us through voluntary fundraising efforts."

Volunteers at North Lancashire and South Lakes CancerCare won the award last year for providing support, therapy, counselling and practical help for cancer patients and their families.

Anyone interested in helping at St John's or who has fundraising ideas, should contact Lorraine Swanson on 01524-382538.