THREE volunteers from the leading local advice charity, Citizens Advice (Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon), were recently thanked for their service at a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

Those who attended were Rodney Glanville from Tavistock and Tiverton volunteers Jane Dunning and Brian Pocock.

Jane Dunning, said: “We had a lovely day with a beautifully presented afternoon tea. Prince William came and spoke to us and said how glamorous we all looked - of course I’m convinced he was talking to me!”.

Brian Pocock said: ‘This was a perfect day: wonderful weather, glorious gardens, brilliant bands, tasty tea, fancy frocks.  It was a privilege to be at a Buckingham Palace garden party, and to see the Queen in her own home."

Rodney Glanville said: "We had the most enjoyable day and met some very deserving people. We also met the Queen, Prince William and Princess Eugenie."

Vicki Rowe, Citizens Advice chief executive, said: "We are most proud of our volunteers and wish to recognise the hours of dedication they put in to supporting others with their individual problems.”

Viki Philips, Citizens Advcie Service Delivery Manager, said: "Without our fantastic and dedicated volunteers we would not be able to run our service. Jane has volunteered with us for 18 years, Brian for 16 years and Rodney for 15 years, so all three combined adds up to 49 years.

"Nominating them for a Palace invite was a small gesture to thank them for the incredible work they have done and the huge number of clients they have helped over that time."

Citizens Advice helps people in the community struggling with debt, housing, benefit and employment issues among other issues.

With 155 volunteers, giving up 775 hours each week, valued at £722,000, Citizens Advice Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon was able to help 11,092 people with 24,189 problems last year.

The charity’s volunteers played a crucial role ensuring people get the advice and support they need to get on with their lives.

The charity offers a wide range of voluntary roles including advisers, assessors, administrators, on reception, and as trustees.

Nationally, 23,000 Citizens Advice volunteers help provide support in 2,900 locations across England and Wales - helping 2.7 million people every year.

Thanks to the contribution of Citizens Advice volunteers locally, two out of every three clients have their problem solved and four out of five say the advice received improved their lives.

If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering with the Citizens Advice service please visit the website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk or drop into a local office (see: www.ruraldevoncab.org.uk ).

The Crediton office, located at the Council Offices, Market Street, Crediton, is open from 10am to 3pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.