A DUDLEY charity has received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service for helping to enhance the quality of life of Dudley's Asian women.

Dudley Asian Women's Network was deemed worthy of the award, which is the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups, for the work it does to encourage woman to participate in various forums.

Since 1993, volunteers have offered support to victims of domestic violence, organised activities to promote healthy life styles and courses to improve life skills and boost job opportunities.

The charity, which has more than 600 members, three employed staff and 35 volunteers, has also established groups to provide support for carers and young people.

Deputy Lieutenant Viv Astling presented the award to the charity on Thursday (October 8), an occasion that also celebrated the move to its new premises at North Gate House in High Street.

Adeela Parvez, centre manager, said: "We are very proud and elated to have won a very prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

"Dudley Asian Women's Network has an ambition to continue its aspiration in achieving excellence in the services it provides."