Hero soldiers receive local recognition

A pair of soldiers from Chard who served in Afghanistan have been honoured by the mayor of the town.

Sergeant John Stone and Lance Corporal Daniel Stone – two brothers who have both served with the Three Rifles – were awarded special plaques in recognition of their efforts in Helmand Province, the BBC reports.

The duo were treated to a surprise reception from mayor Jill Shorthand, which was organised by their family to mark their return.

Sgt John Stone said it was very moving to receive so much backing from the general public.

"It has been surprising the support we’ve had throughout, not just from family, but from people we don’t know, the welfare parcels, the letters from well-wishers," he explained.

The Rifles Regiment were recently granted the Freedom of the Borough of Shropshire, with each member receiving a specially-commissioned tile to commemorate the accolade.

Posted by Mark Wilkins