THE Earl of Wessex has presented a North-East council with an award for its support of the Armed Forces community.

Durham County Council received the Ministry of Defence’s Gold Award, as part of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

The award recognises employers who demonstrate outstanding assistance towards serving and ex-members of the Armed Forces.

Councillor Lucy Hovvels cabinet member for adult and health services and Armed Forces champion, said: “The Gold Award is the highest honour within the Employer Recognition Scheme and I was very proud to receive it on behalf of Durham County Council.

“Our service personnel and veterans have some extremely valuable skills and experience to offer employers and we will continue to fully support their recruitment to the council.”

The council’s Armed Forces Outreach Service provides a range of help and support to all forces personnel, reservists, veterans and their families.

To find out more about the support offered visit http://www.durham.gov.uk/armedforces.