In a landmark moment for the county's LGBTQ+ community, Cornwall Pride has been honoured with the prestigious King's Award for Voluntary Service. This accolade represents the highest recognition a local voluntary group can achieve in the United Kingdom.
A Bittersweet Celebration
Matthew Kenworthy Gomes, chair of Cornwall Pride, described receiving the award as a 'bittersweet moment' for the organisation. While celebrating the achievement, he emphasised that the journey toward true inclusion remains long. 'While we celebrate how far we've come, we know the road to true inclusion is still a long one,' he stated. 'That's exactly why we keep going, together.'
The award specifically recognises the charity's 17 years of dedicated work promoting equality and inclusion throughout Cornwall. Run entirely by volunteers, Cornwall Pride delivers events, outreach programmes, and campaigns that champion visibility for all people across the Duchy.
Recognition for Community Power
Mr Kenworthy Gomes highlighted that the award belongs to every individual who has contributed to the movement. 'Being awarded The King's Award for Voluntary Service is an incredible honour, and one that belongs to every volunteer, partner, and supporter who has helped shape Cornwall Pride,' he said. He noted that the honour underscores 'just how powerful' community-led Pride initiatives can be.
A volunteer from the organisation echoed this sentiment, stating: 'This recognition means the world to all of us. It's a moment to celebrate every single person who's given their time, energy, and heart to make Cornwall Pride happen.'
The Path to Royal Recognition
Cornwall Pride is among a select number of voluntary groups across the UK and Channel Islands to receive the award in 2025. The formal presentation will take place next year, when representatives from Cornwall Pride will receive the accolade and certificate from Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Cornwall.
Furthermore, two volunteers will attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace alongside other recipients of the King's Award. Established in 2002 to celebrate the late Queen's Golden Jubilee, the award continues under King Charles III to recognise outstanding volunteer-led work that creates significant community impact.
