VOLUNTEER doctors who work around the clock to provide emergency care have been praised by the Queen.

Basics Hampshire - a group of 27 military and civilian doctors who specialise in treating critically-ill patients - were given a royal reception at Buckingham Palace after the organisation was recognised as the winner of the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

The award honours volunteer groups that play an essential role in our daily lives.

Volunteers at Basic Hampshire - who are based in Basingstoke, Southampton and Portsmouth - work alongside the Ambulance Service to provide medical support at major accidents and incidents in Hampshire. They are on call 24 hours a day and can give life-saving drugs to patients before they are taken to hospital.

Lynne Caine, fundraising co-ordinator at Basics, said: "This is the best thing that has happened to us because our doctors do this voluntarily."

Phil Hope, Minister for the Third Sector, said: "The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service recognises truly exceptional achievements.

"I know that, for the recipients, the greatest reward is seeing their efforts enrich the lives of others. But we, as a society, should never forget to thank them as it is their passion and dedication that underpins communities across the country."

To nominate a voluntary group, download a form for the 2008 awards from www.queensawardvoluntary.gov.uk or call 0845 000 2002.