A FILM-MAKER who made a documentary about a forgotten hero of the Second World War has told of his "astonishment" that the veteran soldier will not be made a Freeman of the borough of Redcar.

Craig Hornby made the film about Saltburn Second World War veteran Eddie Straight, a Company Sergeant Major who was shot and wounded several times after taking part in the D Day landings, helped liberate Belsen, fought in Burma and even guarded the future Queen, Princess Elizabeth.

He applied for Mr Straight, who also commanded 60 Dartmoor convicts pulling people from burning buildings during the blitz of London, to be given the freedom of the borough in July.

But Mr Hornby said he was "astounded" to be told by the Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council Brenda Forster on Armistice Day that Mr Straight did not qualify.

The council has said it is hold a civic reception in the Mayor's parlour to honour Mr Straight's bravery - a gesture Mr Hornby described as "an insult".

Mr Hornby, also of Saltburn who makes films under the name Pancrack Pictures, said Mr Straight was not aware that he had been nominated.

But he added that staff at the Saltburn home he lives at thought it was a "great idea," not least because the recent film and surrounding attention had given Mr Straight "a new lease of life."

Mr Hornby, who had won the support of former leader of the council Dave Walsh, said: "Eddie's service was for the preservation of the freedom and democracy of this country, of which this borough and community are part.

"And he served with distinction - he must have because the mayor also suggested that a national award such as an OBE would be more appropriate. If he is worthy enough for a national award then how can he not be for a local one?"

Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland Councillor Brenda Forster said: "We absolutely recognise the outstanding contribution that Mr Straight has made for the people of this country through his war effort, and we will be holding a civic reception for him at the Mayor's Parlour to acknowledge his bravery.

"The nomination for Freedom of the Borough was carefully considered by a panel on behalf of the council and regrettably the panel concluded it was not able to recommend the conferment of the award in this particular case.

"I am visiting Mr Straight next week to discuss the civic reception with him as well as the nomination."