The Scrimshaws, of Keppel Drive, have spent 25 years raising more than £50,000 for pets in need of vets by organising events, street collections and selling their own hand-made craft products.

During the last year alone they raised £11,000.

“We were amazed to receive the award. It is the first time the PDSA has given this one as it is their 90th anniversary year. It made it very special for us,” said Barbara.

The couple also said they had been helped in their fund-raising work for some years by friends Kevin and Joan Wilcock, of Orchard Close, Bridlington and could not have made as much money for the cause without them.

PDSA community fund-raising manager, Brenda Alexander, said: “I’m delighted that Brian and Barbara have been awarded an outstanding achievement award.

“The enthusiasm they put into fund-raising is unrelenting. They can often be found stitching peg bags or whipping up cakes to sell on their stalls. Their dedication is unquestionable and they truly deserve this award!”

Both Brian and Barbara had also been nominated for the charity’s fund-raising volunteer team of the year award.