Local Army Reservists have been recognised for their dedication to Queen and country.
Explosive ordnance disposal experts from the Southend-based 33 Engineers regiment’s 3 Troop, 217 Field Squadron were honoured at a special medal ceremony.
Southend mayor Chris Walker was on hand at the ceremony, at the Army Reserve Cenre in Gordon Fields, Ilford, to present Sapper Tim Palmer, from Leigh, his Overseas Service Medal.
Sapper Palmer, in his role as a searcher, given the job of clearing compounds and roads of improvised explosive devices, completed a four-month tour of Afghanistan in December.
Lt Col Eldon Millar, commanding officer of 33 Engineer Regiment, hosted the ceremony.
He said: “This has been a wonderful opportunity to recognise the considerable dedication, commitment and service of our reservists and we are particularly pleased to have the support of so many distinguished guests from our local communities.
“All members of the squadron provide a valuable contribution and consistently demonstrate their first-class training when working alongside colleagues.”
Main image: Mayor Chris Walker, centre, handed out the honours