A mountain rescue team who come to the aid people in danger in the Brecon Beacons has been given highest award given to charities in the UK.

The Central Brecon Mountain Rescue Team has been saving people injured, lost or in danger in the wilds of the the picturesque region for nearly 60 years.

They are responsible for covering the central section of the Brecon Beacons including South Wales’ highest mountain, Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Corn Du as well as the Ystradfellte waterfalls. They train regularly, and are made up of unpaid volunteers, who give up their time to help those that need help.

And now they have been recognised for their lifesaving work and have been awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest award that can be given to any charity in the country.

County Times: Lord Lieutenant Peter Vaughan QPM CStJ

The award represents the equivalent of an MBE and was recently presented to the team by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Peter Vaughan QPM CStJ at the team's base in Merthyr Tydfil.

They were bestowed the award shortly before the passing of the late Queen Elizabeth II and both the award and signed certificate have been given “pride of place on display” at their base.

A spokesperson for the Central Brecon Mountain Rescue Team said: “We are immensely proud to have been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade for any charity.

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“This award is a recognition to the incredible dedication and commitment of our team members, past and present.”

“It is recognition too for the families and employers who stand compassionately behind us, as we leave home or work at a moment’s notice to help others. We couldn't do what we do without their support and understanding.

“This support has allowed Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team to provide a service for over 59 years, twenty-four hours a day, seven-days-a-week to the communities of South Wales.”