AN airman from Consett has been given a prestigious Red Arrows award.

Corporal Paul 'Sonic' Richardson, 35, has been named the 'Blue of the Year'.

This prize is given to the member of the Red Arrows' support team whose performance has been considered to be the most impressive during the previous year.

Mr Richardson is one of three survival equipment fitters who maintain all elements of the pilots' survival equipment, from helmets, oxygen masks, life jackets and trousers to the parachute and life raft fitted to the aircraft.

He said: "It is an honour to be part of the team and I wear my blue suit with pride."

Mr Richardson is now in his third year on the Red Arrows and during the summer is part of the road support team, travelling all over the country.

Wing Commander Jas Hawker said: "Throughout the previous 12 months, Corporal Richardson's contribution to the Red Arrows has been nothing short of outstanding.

"Not only is he an accomplished tradesman in his own field, but he has an irrepressible enthusiasm and energy to assist other trades, whether they want his help or not.

"His good humour and flexible can-do attitude has made a significant contribution to the team's success this year.

"Corporal Richardson is a model airman, who proudly demonstrates the very high standards that we expect from our team members.

"He is an outstanding role model to his peers, a superb team player and his 'can-do attitude' epitomises the ethos on the Red Arrows."