Two League of Jewish Women groups have been given the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, an accolade equivalent in status to an MBE.

The league’s North-West Region, covering Greater Manchester and the Fylde coast, has been recognised for its work with the Jewish and wider community, such as helping at hospitals, schools and care facilities. Headstart, a sub-group based at Manchester’s Christie Hospital, works to boost the morale of chemotherapy patients.

Regional vice-president Averill Moore said the 550-member organisation was “overwhelmed, thrilled and excited”.

The nominations were made by Michelle Wiseman, chief executive of Manchester Jewish Community Care, who said that members’ work at the Nicky Alliance Day Centre was “invaluable. We couldn’t manage without them.”

As well as invitations to the annual Buckingham Palace garden party, the groups will attend a ceremony with the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire where they will receive a certificate signed by the Queen.