VOLUNTEERS have received Royal recognition for the service they provide, literally pointing visitors to a city in the right direction.

The 50-strong Durham Pointers have been named as recipients of a Queens Award for Voluntary Services.

News of the accolade comes little more than three years after the pink-tabarded Good Samaritans were formed to help tourists and other visitors find their way around the city.

During each of the last three summer seasons they have provided voluntary signposting services from their vantage point in the Market Place.

In recognition of the award, Pointers’ representatives Esther Ashby and Karen Wilkes attended a Buckingham Palace garden party, last month.

Commenting on behalf of the group, Mrs Ashby said: “To have our service recognised by the Queen, and to receive the highest award given to volunteer groups is an honour and a thrill.

“This award is for each and every volunteer who has brought passion and knowledge to their role as a Pointer.

“Together we’re proud to say we have helped thousands of visitors make the most of their time in Durham.

“They often tell us that other cities could benefit from a similar service.

“Each year we aim to improve and are pleased that for our fourth year we’re able to extend our service, so we’re now in the Market Place seven days a week from mid-May to September.

“We’re easy to find in our bright pink tabards, and happy to help anyone we can.”

Apart from the Market Place signposting service, members of the Pointers also offer a ‘meet and greet’ service for visiting coach parties.

More information on the Durham Pointers is available via www.durhampointers.co.uk, the group’s website.