ARMY reservists in Newton Aycliffe have bid farewell to a commanding officer who guided them through a challenging period.

Lieutenant Colonel Andy Black commanded 102 Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, known as the Northern Craftmen, for two-and-a-half years, during which time there was a major restructure of the Reserve Army.

Lt Col Black handed over control to Lieutenant Colonel Nick Moore MBE at a farewell ceremony at the unit’s headquarters in Northfield Way.