More than 1,000 people who give their time for the Surrey Wildlife Trust have been given the highest honour for volunteers.

They have been awarded The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service for their contribution to wildlife education and conservation in the county.

Volunteers take part in activities from clearing vegetation to managing rivers and ponds, coppicing for woodland management, planting trees and removing invasive species.

Claire Courtier, the trust’s volunteer development manager, said: “This award is absolutely incredible; we are so delighted that our volunteers have been given the recognition that they deserve.

“It’s a fantastic accolade for all of our wonderful volunteers who dedicate their time, energy and expertise to help wildlife in Surrey. Not only have they undertaken a vast amount of work themselves, they have also inspired many others to contribute towards conservation.

“We hope our volunteers feel extremely proud of the recognition that this award represents.”

They also educate school groups at the charity's centre at Nower Wood near Leatherhead.

During 2016-17, volunteers dedicated 8,814 days of their free time.

Simon Humphreys, who has been a trust volunteer for 35 years, went to a garden party at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the success.

He said: "Being a representative for all the volunteers across the Surrey Wildlife Trust was a great honour. It was an outstanding occasion; the grounds were beautiful and looked good for wildlife too. It is something I will always remember."