A neurodivergent charity, Potential Kids, has received The King’s Award for Voluntary Service at Hatfield House's Old Palace.

The dedicated group of volunteers from Hatfield have been honoured with the highest accolade available to local voluntary groups, putting them on par with MBE recipients.

The charity celebrated their honour with an afternoon tea alongside a diverse crowd which included volunteers, trustees, parents, carers, councillors, funders and supporters.

They received their award crystal and accompanying certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant Robert Voss CBE CStJ, who said: "To put it into context, there were thousands and thousands of charities across the UK and last year 262 and only 262 received the King’s award, so that’s how special you are."

The event was a highlight for many, including the founder of Potential Kids, Angela Gaughan.

She said: "This was a truly amazing day at Hatfield House, celebrating our charity Potential Kids receiving the 'King's Award for Voluntary Service'.

"It was very emotional being surrounded by all who have supported and made the charity what it is today.

"We look forward to the future and continuing our work supporting Children and Young People.

"As many of our longstanding beneficiaries are reaching adulthood, we are now enhancing our support for life skills learning and activities to help transition to adulthood to help our community to continue to flourish.

"From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank everyone on this journey of support, from the past, present and future."

Established in 2002 during Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee, The King’s Award for Voluntary Service recognises exceptional work by local volunteer groups for the benefit of their communities.

It is a tradition that His Majesty, The King, has voiced his keenness to maintain.

Formed to support neurodiverse children and young people, including those grappling with autism, ADHD, Tourette's, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and mental health challenges, Potential Kids provides a broad array of social, educational, and sporting activities.

The small sessions for neurodiverse individuals and their siblings aim to reduce social anxieties and fears, focusing on mental and physical wellbeing, alongside encouraging development across all areas of life.

Further information is available at potentialkids.org.uk.