THE Walking Bus Project in Kent and Medway has been chosen as one of just 92 groups across the country to receive a special voluntary service award.

Across the county, more than 2,000 children now make their way to school as part of a walking bus staffed by adult volunteer helpers.

The project was nominated to receive The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, an annual award scheme launched in 2002 when the Queen celebrated her golden jubilee.

The idea was to reward unsung heroes in our community who play an essential role in our daily lives.

The Walking Bus Project, supported by the Kent Messenger Group, was started in Canterbury four years ago by its chairman Simon Dolby, a KM-employed sub editor and community-minded father who lives in Canterbury.

Both he and the scheme’s treasurer Gillian Reuby will be invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the achievement.

Mr Dolby said: “I am delighted this project’s volunteers, as well as its contributions to children’s road safety and environmental issues have been recognised.

“The volunteers who operate individual walking buses in Kent and support the service behind the scenes do a tremendous job and thoroughly deserve this praise. I am enormously proud of the commitment of our team.”

The project will receive a certificate signed by the Queen and a piece of crystal inscribed with the title of the award.

Paul Goggins, Minister for the Voluntary and Community Sector, said: “Groups like the walking bus make a huge difference to the everyday lives of so many people. It is really important that they are given the praise they deserve, particularly as this is the Year of the Volunteer.”