A NEWPORT man has been invited to Buckingham Palace for a prestigious garden party having been recognised for his services to volunteering.

Keith Wood, 74, of Bettws, will be among hundreds of people that will meet the Queen, Prince Phillip and members of the Royal Family at the event on Tuesday, May 16.

Mr Wood was given the Inspirational Volunteer accolade at the Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations awards in November.

The Monnow Way resident is an active volunteer for Newport City Homes, Newport Museum, Newport Mind and the Alzheimer’s Society.

Mr Wood, who has been volunteering for six years, has described the invitation as an “honour”.

“I’m just amazed, it just doesn’t happen to people like us,” he said.

“I think I’ve only ever heard of one other person that I know that has been invited to the Palace.

He added: “It feels nice to be recognised for the volunteering work that I’ve done.”