Barnsley Youth Choir

As the country gears up to celebrate King Charles III’s coronation, a member of the Wellspring team has been awarded a very special role in the festivities.

Karen Davis, Executive and Governance Manager at Wellspring, has been recognised by Their Majesties The King and Queen Consort for her important contribution to Barnsley Youth Choir, where she volunteers as Trustee and Secretary.

In conjunction with the Royal Voluntary Service, 500 remarkable volunteers have been chosen to receive this very special accolade and be crowned a Coronation Champion. Judges recognised that Karen has had a significant impact in her role, guiding and supporting the choir through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. Many children and families were left isolated but her commitment to supporting vulnerable children has been remarkable, meticulously organising and overseeing all activities and communication, including large-scale international tours and key events.

As part of the award, Karen has been invited to attend the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle on Sunday, and she will also receive a specially designed, official Coronation Champions pin and a certificate signed by Their Majesties. Earlier this week on Wednesday, Karen also attended the very first Buckingham Palace Garden Party of King Charles’ reign, a prestigious event where King Charles and Queen Camilla, joined by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, welcomed thousands of carefully chosen guests.

Karen said: “I am thrilled and humbled to win this special award that reflects on the whole volunteer team at Barnsley Youth Choir that work so hard to provide opportunities for children in Barnsley. They are a joy to work alongside and it is a privilege to serve the community in such a positive and exciting organisation. I am incredibly grateful to have been deemed worthy of this special award”.

Have a fantastic time on Sunday, Karen!