A cash-strapped lifesaving charity has received Royal recognition.

The Beachy Head Chaplaincy Team is to receive The Queens Award for Voluntary Services in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK.

A statement on the charity’s Facebook page said: “We would like to pass on our thanks to all those who help support and encourage our work, past and present”.

The charity’s future remains shrouded in doubt after it announced at the end of May that it urgently needs £15,000 by the end of June and £50,000 over the next three months if it is to carry on its vital service.

Other Sussex winners announced this week include Alfriston and Cuckmere Valley Heartstart responder team, Brighton and Hove Healthwalks, Lewes-based disability charity The Oyster Project and Sussex Neighbourhood Watch Search Teams.