BOURNEMOUTH’S homelessness charity Michaels Limited was invited to Buckingham Palace after scooping the Queen’s highest award for voluntary groups.

The accolade comes 25 years after a board of volunteers set up Dorset’s first night shelter at St Michael’s Church in Bournemouth.

The charity, which operates Michael House in Boscombe, has received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the equivalent of an MBE.

Its roots go back to when John Coulston and a board of volunteers set up Bournemouth’s original night shelter.

In 2000, the charity set up Michael House to provide longer-term accommodation, with the tagline “Rebuilding lives”.

Michaels has so far helped more than 700 men and women back into society. The hostel has 25 beds and an eight-bed house for those preparing to take the next step.

Twenty-one individual volunteers and a school share their time and skills with residents, including facilitating activities, managing the website and acting as trustees.

The Queen’s Award recognises not only their contributions but also the voluntary work of staff and residents. Residents are regularly involved in community clear-ups and do shifts on the Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol.

Founder John Coulston and chief executive Mark Horsford were invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace.

Mr Horsford said: "This a tremendous achievement for the charity and a testament to everyone involved, particularly our volunteers, without whom we couldn't provide our unique and person-centred services.

“Everyone should feel immensely proud of the recognition the award represents."

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service was created in 2002 to mark the Queen’s Golden Jubilee.

The award also went this year to Dorset Blind Association, Stompin’ on the Quomps Community Interest Company, Swanage Railway and Friends of Dolphin.

John Coulston won a medal from the Pope a decade ago for his years of service to the homeless.