FIVE veterans have been honoured with an award for their services in the Second World War.

Darlington's newly-appointed mayor, Councillor Nick Wallis, presented the residents of Middleton Hall Retirement Village with their veteran’s badges on Tuesday June 11.

The Veterans Badges, which are issued by the Ministry of Defence to allow veterans to be recognised and honoured for their service to their country, were handed out in a short ceremony which included a summary of their military service given by Sandy Sanderson of Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington.

The five men honoured, Norman Darley, Don Patterson, Duncan MacEwan, Phillip Watson and Douglas Forrester-Paton served during the Second World War with Mr Darley a veteran of the D-Day campaign.

At the ceremony Mayor of Darlington, Cllr Nick Wallis said: “It’s humbling to be here this afternoon in the presence of men who gave so much to their country at its time of greatest peril.

"After the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the ceremony today has been pertinent.

"I look forward to supporting further events such as these over my time as Mayor.”

Fiona Green, Communications Manager at Middleton Hall said: “It was really special for all family members, fellow residents and staff to share this poignant ceremony recognising and honouring the courage of our residents during their years of service.”