“I was delighted to hear today that Bolton grown charity Xplode Magazine has been honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

I am very proud to see its founder and the whole team’s commitment recognised with such a status.

Fitting with the charity’s vision, this goes a long way in neutering creativity and empowering the next generation to use it to shape the world.”

Xplode Magazine showcases the writing and design skills of Bolton’s young people and covers youth culture, music, fashion, sport, entertainment, social issues and aims to promote emerging talent.

This is the tool in which the young people acquire skills. You can read the magazine and learn more about the organisation at www.xplodemag.co.uk