Oxford’s Falcon Rowing and Canoeing Club has won the Queen’s Award for Volunteering Groups.

The Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Tim Stevenson, presented the group with the award and enjoyed a gondola trip down the Thames.

The group drifted from the Donnington Bridge home of the club to Isis farm house on Monday evening.

It is the first time this award has been given to a sports club in Oxfordshire.

Peter Travis, of the Falcon Club, said: “We are delighted to receive this award because it recognises the importance of all those people who help our club, who stand on the riverbank, coaching and making bacon butties. They make this club warm and welcoming, and we are so grateful to them, they have done a splendid job.”

This award recognises the work the club has done in driving the volunteer sector in water sports over the past few years.

The club also has seen growth in participation from young people and people with disabilities.

Carterton Lions were also due to be presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service by the Lord Lieutenant at an event at Carterton Manor last night.