Garvagh Clydesdale & Vintage Vehicle Club receives Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

The Club has been preserving history in vintage vehicles, machinery and farming methods, including Clydesdale horses, for 25 years. They have been achieving this by holding one of the largest shows of its kind annually, as well as hosting vintage ploughing matches and many other pursuits involving their passion for horsepower of both the mechanical and four legged type. 

The annual show and colourful parade is a major local attraction. They bring enjoyment to many through their annual show, ploughing matches and get togethers. All work is done by volunteers of all ages and, through all their endeavours, they have also raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for local medical and other charities.

Chairperson, Nevin Smyth said: “It is incredible to have been ominated for this award, but to have been selected is overwhelming.

“The club have worked tirelessly over the past 25 years to bring our passion to life for others to enjoy and learn from. To be rewarded for our endeavours with such a prestigious honour is a privilege. I would personally like to thank each and every one of our volunteers for their continued hard work and commitment year on year. 

“I must also pay tribute to the local businesses whose support and generosity help us to do what we do.

“We could not accept this award without paying tribute to our members who have passed on over the years and accepting this award will also be in their memory. It is not yet certain if this year’s Garvagh Show, due to take place in early September, will go ahead due to the restrictions of Covid-19, however receiving this award will make this a year we will never forget for more positive reasons. We will be eternally grateful for this award and will continue to work hard to honour the title of Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service”.

The Lord Lieutenant, Mrs Alison Millar, commented in her citation: “These Volunteers are no ordinary men and women – they are nimble thinkers and doers drawing at the heartstrings to preserve and explain the heritage and culture of the community in innovative ways, providing important local charity funding at the same time.”