On 4th October, a very special presentation occurred, at Castro's restaurant , in Cheddleton, when the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Mr Ian Dudson CBE KStJ, presented The Queen's Award For Voluntary Service to representatives of The Beatrice narrowboat charity. This takes the form of a crystal glass trophy which is etched with the details and a certificate signed by Her Majesty The Queen.

The Meadows School were invited to share this prestigious occasion, representing other local Special Schools, who are all regular users of the boat, on cruises along the Caldon Canal. Four students, joined Mrs Suzanne Ivey and Mrs Joan Wright, in thanking and congratulating all the volunteers, who give their time, free of charge, to crew the narrowboat. This was a very special occasion, in the presence of local civic dignatories.