THE production company behind County Durham’s open-air live-action show held a special ceremony for its volunteers to be presented with The Queen’s Award.

Known as Archers, the volunteers for Kynren - An Epic Tale of England were invited by Eleven Arches to the private presentation on the stage at its Bishop Auckland site.

The prestigious honour recognises the tireless work that the 1,000-strong cast and crew of volunteers have put into bringing the history of the North-East to life.

Addressing the volunteers, Lord-Lieutenant for County Durham, Sue Snowdon, who handed over the award, said: “You have as volunteers wholeheartedly embraced the challenges that a project of this magnitude raises.

“You’ve done it, and you’ve provided a focal point for the town and indeed the region’s ongoing development, attracting visitors from near and far to Bishop Auckland and the North-East.

“People have blossomed in many different ways, developing new skills, taking part in apprenticeships, gaining confidence, all of which has been so beneficial to volunteers, and in particular to those who have been successful in their search for work.

“This award is not lightly given and it’s not easily gained. It recognises hard work, vision commitment and dedication. It’s hardly surprising that therefore these awards are highly prized and recognised as the hallmark of excellence.”

The volunteers have collectively contributed more than 500,000 hours of their time since the professional training began for the attraction.

They stood to sing God Save the Queen as the award was presented and enjoyed an afternoon picnic before putting on another performance for visitors on the evening of Saturday, September 1.

Co-Founder and CEO of Eleven Arches, Anne-Isabelle Daulon, who received The Queen’s Award on behalf of the volunteers, said: “I don’t believe in miracles but I believe in people working together to produce miracles, and Kynren is truly a miracle.

“It’s cause for celebration to be acknowledged with the highest award on this journey as a group of extraordinary people.”

Kynren returned for 17 shows this year in a run which finishes on Saturday, September 15.