The only Students' Union to receive the prestigious award in 2016, and one of 193 charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups, the Queen's Award is testament to more than 60 years of contributions to the Bristol community.

Our students make such a valuable contribution to the city, both throughout their studies and after graduation. Thirty-nine per cent of students at Bristol gave time to volunteering, with more than

100,000 hours given in total. Volunteers worked on projects ranging from sustainability initiatives to helping children with disabilities, young carers, adults with learning disabilities and isolated older people.

The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK to recognise outstanding work in their communities. The awards were created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee, and winners are announced each year on 2 June – the anniversary of the Queen's Coronation.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Hugh Brady said: "Voluntary work is hugely helpful to society, and Bristol SU's volunteers have done fantastic work in the city, helping a wide cross-section of people. This award is well-deserved, and I send all those involved my warmest congratulations".

Max Austin, Undergraduate Education Officer, added: "It is extremely rare for an organisation like a students' union to receive an award like this – especially given the huge competition. It is testament to the quality of our students' volunteering contributions in and around Bristol that they, through their Students' Union, have been recognised this way. We are extremely proud of everything Bristol students continue to contribute towards the wider community".