A COUNCIL has been recognised as a top employer by the Ministry of Defence.

North Yorkshire County Council has been given the Silver Employer Recognition Scheme award, which is given to employers who employ at least one member of the armed forces community and show flexibility towards training and mobilisation of reservists.

The leader of the council Cllr Carl Les said: “North Yorkshire is home to the country’s biggest army base, Catterick Garrison, together with associated barracks at Dishforth, Ripon and Topcliffe.

"We are particularly pleased about the recent announcement of substantial investment at Catterick and the creation of a super-garrison.”

Cllr Val Arnold added: “We positively welcome the members of the armed forces community as employees."