THE Neilston Cattle Show has been handed a prestigious honour by the Queen.

Organisers of the event – a highlight in East Renfrewshire’s social calendar – said they are thrilled to be given the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

It is the highest award given to voluntary groups in the UK and recognises the outstanding work being done in communities.

This year’s show had to be scrapped because of the Covid-19 lockdown but the Neilston Agricultural Society, which organises the event, hope it will make a triumphant return in 2021.

Ronnie Melrose, president of the society, said: “We are delighted to receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

“This award recognises all the volunteers who give their time throughout the year to make the Neilston Show happen and the many organisations and helpers who turn up on the first Saturday in May, come rain or shine, to make sure it is a great day out for all the family.

“Our educational marquee was a key factor in deciding the award. The tent has grown over 20 years to become a 200-feet-long showcase for more than 30 exhibitors of farming and traditional crafts, from beekeeping to sheep shearing.

“This display area allows youngsters of all ages to get up close with livestock and see working demonstrations of field-to-fork skills.

“While we were all disappointed that current circumstances mean our show had to be cancelled in 2020, receiving this award e Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is a piece of good news which will encourage all our volunteers to organise a great Neilston Show in 2021.”

Colonel Peter McCarthy, Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, will award the prize to representatives of Neilston Agricultural Society later this summer.

Two volunteers will also be invited to a garden party at Holyroodhouse, in Edinburgh, in July 2021.

Neilston Agricultural Society was formed in 1825 and has since made its annual show a celebration of traditional farming around the village, as well as the wider community.

This year’s winners of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service were announced on the 67th anniversary of Her Majesty’s coronation.