Dartmouth Royal Regatta Committee Celebrates being granted The King's Award for Voluntary Service.
A remarkable legacy spanning over 192 years, 181 events, of selfless commitment, community spirit and passion for Dartmouth lies at the heart of Dartmouth Royal Regatta Committee’s recognition through The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, announced earlier today, 14 Nov 26, on the occasion of His Majesty The King’s Birthday.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK, recognising outstanding contributions to their communities. Often described as the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary groups, it celebrates the dedication, commitment and impact of people who give their time freely to make a difference.
The Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta Committee is immensely proud to celebrate the extraordinary contribution of its volunteers, whose time, skills, generosity and passion deliver one of the town’s most cherished traditions.
Ed Botterill, former Chair of Dartmouth Royal Regatta explained “Wholly volunteer-led, the Regatta depends entirely on people giving their time freely to be part of something bigger than themselves. From planning and organising to delivering events, stewarding, safety and the countless tasks behind the scenes, every contribution matters. Without our volunteer committee, organising an annual week of sport, free events and entertainment for the community and visitor simply would not happen.
Their enduring commitment is not short-lived, as many volunteers have given years – even decades – of service, building on the knowledge and experience passed down through successive generations. Indeed, we would not be where we are today without the 181 years of dedication from the committees and volunteers who came before us. We are custodians of a remarkable legacy, with a responsibility to preserve and develop it for future generations.
At the heart of this commitment is a simple but powerful sentiment: a love of where you live. Whether Dartmouth is the place you were born, have adopted or have chosen to make your home, that passion inspires people to give back, support their neighbours and help their community flourish.”
The Regatta benefits the whole community, bringing people together, building pride and creating opportunities for all ages and abilities. It supports local charities and causes and works alongside organisations including Dartmouth Green Partnerships, the Royal Navy University Royal Naval Units, Friends of the Dart, Saltmarsh Project,‘Till the Coast is Clear and BeWild. It also supports other community events in the town throughout the year.
Our volunteering work is made possible through the unwavering support and partnership of the Town Council, Britannia Royal Naval College (BRNC) andDartmouth Harbour Navigation Authority (DHNA), whose involvement and advice areinextricably linked to all that we do.
Underpinning everything is a commitment to delivering a safe, sustainable, repeatable, successful and responsible event, with high standards of public safety, safeguarding, risk management and environmental awareness.
Laura Campbell, as the new Chair of Dartmouth Royal Regatta added “This award is about people, commitment and community. It recognises the selfless generosity of volunteers who give their time because they love Dartmouth and believe in being part of something bigger than themselves. Our volunteers are the backbone of the Regatta. Their passion and unwavering commitment allow us to uphold our traditions while creating something meaningful, inclusive and sustainable for generations to come.”
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is a fitting tribute to the people, partnerships and enduring community spirit that make Dartmouth Royal Regatta possible. As one of only 250 volunteer lead projects across the UK being recognised this year, we are understandably proud of this achievement and recognition. We hope this recognition will inspire others to get involved, volunteer their time and help make a difference to our town and its future.
If you would like to volunteer with Dartmouth Royal Regatta, please contact us via secretary@dartmouthregatta.co.uk