Somer Valley FM, the not-for-profit community radio station serving Midsomer Norton, Bath, Keynsham and the wider Somer Valley, has been crowned Volunteer Team of the Year at the 2025 Bath & North East Somerset Community Awards – a title decided by public vote.

The win comes just months after the station received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade for volunteer groups in the UK.

Station Director Pete Helmore said: "This double recognition – from both our local community and His Majesty The King – is a testament to the passion of our volunteers. Every day, they give their time to connect, inform, and uplift the Somer Valley. To win a public vote category means the world, because it shows our listeners value what we do."

The awards, organised by Bath & North East Somerset Council and partners, celebrate individuals and organisations who go "above and beyond" to support their communities. Somer Valley FM was praised for its dedication to volunteer engagement and bridging the gap between education and community development.

Councillor Karen Walker, chairwoman of Bath and North East Somerset Council, said:“The Community Awards serve as a platform to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of remarkable individuals and organisations within our community, allowing us to express our appreciation. Thank you to everyone who participated in the awards, including the nominators, our partner organisations and everyone who contributed to the public voting categories.”

Becky Brooks, Director at 3SG, said: "The Community Awards were launched by Bath and North East Somerset Council at 3SG's Volunteer Fair last October to recognise the importance of charities and local residents who go above and beyond for the benefit of others. A huge congratulations to all of the winners of this year's awards and thank you for the tireless work that you do. It is needed now more than ever and these awards support that well deserved recognition."