Buckingham Palace garden party celebrates parish and town council excellence

Parish and town councillors, clerks and council staff from across England attended a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace last month, following our nominations.

The invitation recognised the outstanding contribution parish and town councils make to their communities, with attendees including Star Council Award winners, community leaders and individuals championing initiatives ranging from climate action to coastal communities.

Around 8,000 guests gathered in the Palace gardens for the event, hosted by Their Majesties The King and Queen and members of the Royal Family. For many attendees, the occasion was a rare opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the parish and town council sector on a national stage.

We play an important role in ensuring the work of parish and town councils receives the recognition it deserves. Through the allocation of garden party nominations, we are able to highlight the dedication, innovation and public service demonstrated by councillors, clerks and council staff across the country.

Representatives from Exmouth Town Council attended after the council won our 2024/25 Star Council Awards Climate Response of the Year. The clerk, Lisa Bowman, said the event was a reminder of the importance of collaboration, community leadership and public service. Cllr Olly Davey described the atmosphere as warm and welcoming.

Among those attending was Penzance Town Council's James Hardy, our 2024/25 Star Council Awards Clerk of the Year winner. He described the day as a fantastic experience. He welcomed the opportunity to meet guests from across public life and the voluntary sector.

Other guests reflected on the sense of appreciation shown to attendees throughout the day. Hertfordshire Association of Parish and Town Councils' Sue Campbell described seeing the Royal Family in person as a memorable moment. 2024/25 Star Council Awards Councillor of the Year winner, Cllr Richard Collins,  praised the organisation of the event and the opportunity to celebrate public service alongside thousands of guests from across the UK.

The nominations demonstrate the breadth of talent and commitment within the parish and town council sector. From supporting communities and protecting local environments to delivering services and strengthening local democracy, those recognised at Buckingham Palace represent the vital contribution parish and town councils make every day.

Congratulates all those who attended and thank you for your continued dedication to serving your communities.