Porlock is a village which thrives on community spirit and generosity of its many residents, and this week the village is celebrating one of its own receiving a royal honour.

Dedicated volunteer, Denise Sage, has been selected out of 5,000 nominations as one of the King’s Coronation Community Champions.

Denise was so shocked at the news that at first she thought it might be a scam!

But it’s real, and she has now received a specially designed Champion’s Pin and a signed certificate from the King and Queen Consort.

Denise has been a stalwart volunteer for many years in Porlock and is the driving force behind many community projects.

She spearheads the Light Up Porlock Christmas Campaign, organises Community Soup Days, was instrumental in helping the highly successful Porlock Coronavirus Community Helpline, initiated the installation of the magnificent floral displays in Porlock, started and leads the Porlock Good Neighbours Scheme, rallies neighbours in her street to Pancake Days, Carol Singing, Tea Parties, bakes delicious cakes and is always looking out for those who are in need.

Denise said: “I thought this award was a scam and had to double check and then I couldn’t sleep because I was so excited. I only represent the large number of wonderful people in Porlock, a village that thrives on kindness, goodwill and common sense.”

In true Denise style, she has decided to decline a once in a lifetime opportunity to attend the King’s Coronation concert on 7th May, as she is organising the Coronation community lunch for Porlock residents.

Deborah Stanyon, Porlock Visitor Centre Manager said: “Denise is a shining example of what volunteering and giving to one’s community means.

“Her list of good deeds is endless! Denise gives her time freely, willingly and without expectation or recognition in order to and she is a worthy recipient of the King’s Community Champion award.”