THE unsung heroes of Sobell House have received royal recognition for bringing the human touch to the unit.

The Oxford hospice this week received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, to mark the dedicated work of the 200 volunteers who give up their time to help patients and staff.

Since opening 31 years ago, Sobell has relied on unpaid workers in every aspect of its service, including drivers, gardeners, receptionists and day centre and ward helpers.

Former GP and Sobell consultant of palliative care Dr Richard Evans decided to nominate them for the award to highlight their never-ending commitment.

He said: "Coming from all walks of life, they bring cheer and normality.

"They are always happy to chat or share a joke or a tear, and nearly always leave a patient feeling better.

"I think they're absolutely wonderful. Arguably, they do a better job than the staff - they communicate on a human level, which the doctors and nurses try to do, but there's often a clinical edge.

"It takes a particular type of person with a particular vocation to want to do this work. Nobody really knows what they do or who they are, and they deserve some recognition."

On Monday, many of the volunteers joined staff for the annual Volunteers' Tea Party, when Vice Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire Malcolm Cochrane presented the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service certificate and commemorative crystal.

The award was set up in 2002 as part of Her Majesty's Golden Jubilee celebrations, and recognises volunteers working across the UK.

Volunteer Vicky Baker, 71, of Meadow Lane, Donnington Bridge, Oxford, has worked at Sobell House for 21 years, after being given an application form by a friend.

The grandmother-of-five, who once a week welcomes patients in the day centre, said: "I make them tea and coffee and sit and talk to them. Sometimes you just need to sit with them and listen, and make them feel safe and secure.

"People think a hospice is a very sorry, sad place, but it's not. There's lots of laughter, and lots of kisses and cuddles.

"Winning this award is fabulous. I volunteer because I want to. It's a very rewarding job and I wouldn't ever leave."

To help at Sobell House, call 01865 857007.