THREE borough residents have been announced as Diamond Champions for their outstanding volunteer work.

Mary Orchard, Ken Strike and Susan Wallin have been honoured alongside 57 other volunteers from around the Midlands by the WRVS as 60 Diamond Champions, which recognises the contribution people over the age of 60 make through volunteering.

After being chosen from over 550 nominations, all 60 champions are set to attend a glittering celebration in Birmingham on Wednesday, where they will be presented with a specially designed Diamond Champions pin as well as receiving a certificate signed by the WRVS joint patrons - The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall.

At the ceremony at the Grand Hyatt Hotel ten people champions will also be chosen by a judging panel to join 70 others from across the UK at St James’s Palace in London on November 29, where they will meet Their Royal Highnesses.

Sam Ward, WRVS head of region for the Midlands, said: "It is with great pleasure that we announce the 60 Diamond Champions from the Midlands. They are truly deserving of the honour and it is justified recognition of the selfless work they do in their communities to help others.”