A PENISTONE-BASED mountain rescue team have been presented with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the equivalent of an MBE.

The Woodhead Mountain Rescue Team provide a volunteer based emergency search and rescue service to support communities and blue light services across South Yorkshire – and are based on the outskirts of Barnsley.

They were one of 262 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year.

The award aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities.

They were presented with the award at a special ceremony last weekend.

A spokesperson said: “On Saturday, Woodhead Mountain Rescue hosted an event to celebrate the receiving of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, along with a number of team members being awarded to King’s Coronation Medal.

“We would like to say a big thank you once again to those who joined us; family, friends, esteemed dignitaries, and the King’s representative – Lord Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, Dame Hilary Chapman.

“As mentioned on the day, and as any team member will say, these awards extend to all those who support the team.

“As always, we cannot do what we do without you.”