A West Yorkshire charity that supports local people with vision loss was celebrated at a Buckingham Palace Garden Party last week (Tuesday 20 May).
Outlookers was awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the voluntary sector equivalent of an MBE, in November 2024.
Moin Valli, chief executive of Valli Optometry and Audiology, attended the Garden Party in his capacity as the charity’s vice chair of trustees.
He was joined by David Quarmby, founder and chair of the charity.
Outlookers was being recognised for its positive contribution to the lives of blind and partially sighted people across Kirklees and West Yorkshire.
The user-led charity offers assistive technology training, peer support, help with accessing benefits, and social inclusion opportunities for local people living with sight loss.
It has local groups running in Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley and Holmfirth, and also offers virtual meetings.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service recognises exceptional community work facilitated by volunteer-led organisations.
Valli said: “Attending the Garden Party at Buckingham Palace was an unforgettable experience and a proud moment, not just personally but for everyone involved in Outlookers.
“This award reflects the dedication of our volunteers, the resilience of our members, and the power of community. I’m honoured to play a small part in such life-changing work.”
The Garden Party was attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Military bands were on hand to provide entertain throughout the event.
Quarmby said: “It was a delightful day, with the sun shining down on the scenic garden of Buckingham Palace. The food was scrumptious as one might expect, and there must have been a few thousand people there.
“There was no chance of me talking or shaking the hands of Prince William or Kate as they slowly moved from Buckingham Palace to the Royal Tent for their afternoon tea.”
He added: “I sat and ate and listened to the glorious music of two military bands that were playing in different parts of the garden.”
Lead image: Moin Valli, David Quarmby, and Quarmby’s guide dog, Reggie, at the Buckingham Palace Garden Party