Skylark IX Recovery Trust honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2025

We are delighted to share that Skylark IX Recovery Trust has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) 2025 — the highest honour given to local volunteer groups in the UK and equivalent to an MBE.

This national recognition celebrates the exceptional commitment, skill and compassion of our volunteers, who work tirelessly to protect the legacy of the historic “Dunkirk Little Ship” Skylark IX while supporting people across West Dunbartonshire through our recovery, boatbuilding and community programmes.

Skylark IX Recovery Trust is one of 231 organisations across the UK receiving the award this year. Each recipient highlights the extraordinary impact volunteers have on strengthening communities and improving lives.

Over the coming months, representatives of Skylark IX Recovery Trust will formally receive the Award from The Lord-Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire, and two of our volunteers will be invited to attend a Royal Garden Party in 2026.

Mary Burch BEM, Chair of Skylark IX Recovery Trust, said:

“We are deeply honoured to receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of Skylark IX — honouring her legacy while helping people in our community find hope and recovery. This award is a meaningful reflection of their compassion, resilience, and belief in the power of community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to every volunteer, supporter, partner, and friend who has been part of our journey. This recognition truly belongs to them — a celebration of the dedication and care that make West Dunbartonshire such a strong and inspiring place.”

Anne Dyer, Depute Director of Alternatives, Dumbarton and advisor to the Trust, said:

“It has been a privilege to work alongside Skylark IX Recovery Trust and witness firsthand the impact volunteers from Alternatives, DACA and the wider community make every single day. The blend of heritage, recovery, and community spirit is truly unique, and the volunteers are the driving force behind that success. The time and commitment our volunteers offer doesn’t just support Skylark IX — it creates real pathways of hope and recovery in our community.”

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