The award, endorsed by the Charity Commission, recognises the Foundation’s work in supporting the local community.

Last year, Milton Keynes Community Foundation helped local organisations to the value of £1,195,282, made up of grants of £693,958 and subsidised rents of £501,324.

This funding assisted 158 different projects in support of a wide range of people in need across the city, said a spokesman.

Julia, pictured with Charity Commission chief executive officer Andrew Hind, said: “This is excellent news in ensuring that the status and recognition of Community Foundations is growing at both a national and local level as one of the main grant awarding and philanthropic organisations of our time.”