FOUR Royal Marines from the North-East have been awarded medals for bravery after they went beyond the call of duty while on operations in Afghanistan.

Corporal Michael Cowe, Marine Ian Danby, Corporal Alan Hewitt and Corporal Simon Willey have been honoured with the military cross, the third level of military decoration.

Cpl Cowe, 35, from Wallsend, North Tyneside, was on mobile operations with 42 Commando in Afghanistan.

During one operation, with little thought for his own safety and despite coming under continuous enemy fire, he led his section across a mined area to rescue fellow Royal Marines who had sustained injuries.

The citation recommending him for the award said he made a significant contribution to the operation.

Cpl Willey, 21, from Middlesbrough, was recognised for his involvement in an operation in March to clear a Taliban stronghold.

His award citation said he showed a complete disregard for his safety over a prolonged period under effective enemy fire, which was pivotal to the operation's success.

In December, last year, 27-year-old Cpl Hewitt, from Darlington, was in charge of a group of men who came under sustained fire from the enemy.

His award citation said: "Had it not been for Cpl Hewitt's personal bravery and the selflessness of his actions, there is no doubt that the patrol would have sustained significant casualties."

Marine Ian Danby was serving in Afghanistan in January when his patrol came under unexpected and sustained attack. He separated from the rest of patrol and engaged the enemy, allowing the others to move to safety.

His award citation described his efforts as selfless, tireless and at the expense of his safety.