A TAVISTOCK veteran received his HM Armed Forces Commemorative Badge last week from West Devon and Torridge MP Geoffrey Cox at a special reception in Bideford.

Robert Matthews, who was in the Royal Navy from May 1959 to February 1971, was one of a number of former service personnel who had contacted Mr Cox to help them obtain the badge.

All veterans are eligible to apply for the badge, which was launched in May 2004 to encourage a sense of unity and community among veterans and ignite public recognition.

Mr Cox organised the reception to present the badges and talked to the recipients about their experiences and met members of their families.

He said: 'I hope that this small gesture will show our appreciation for the valuable service our local veterans have given, and that we cherish and prize our armed forces and those who serve in them.

'I am privileged to be able to present their veterans' badges at what is an occasion for celebration and gratitude.'

If you are a veteran within Mr Cox's constituency and have not received your commemorative badge, contact his office on 01237 459002.