A LOCAL serviceman who has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charities has received a prestigious award from the Royal Marines.

Horrabridge resident Andrew ‘Tiny’ Collins is a Royal Navy senior non-commissioned officer and known locally as the man who restored the village war memorial in time for the First World War centenary in 2018.

Last Wednesday (June 24) petty officer Andrew was presented with a Commandant General Royal Marines’ (CGRM) Commendation for his work whilst part of 42 Commando RM at Bickleigh Barracks near Plymouth.

A CGRM’s commendation is not often given to non-Royal Marines but thanks to PO Collins’ extraordinary dedication to his role in the unit, as well as his notable efforts in supporting and running additional activities to the benefit of the personnel in 42 Cdo, he has been commended.

On receiving his award, Andrew said: ‘I am the first member of the Royal Navy to be given this high level award which is normally only given to Royal Marines.

‘It lists a lot of the great fundraising I have carried out for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines but also mentions about some of the local fundraising I have done.

‘I feel extremely lucky to have been chosen to receive this prestigious award.

‘To be the first Royal Navy sailor to receive a high level commendation normally only given to “Commandos” feel amazing.’

Over the course of his time at Bickleigh Barracks there have been many examples of his proactivity; including identifying merchandising opportunities with the unit’s sporting teams, as well as with both the Inter-services Triathlon and Royal Marines’ boxing teams and even supporting a local cricket team.

As part of his citation with the commendation, major general Matt Holmes CBE DSO (distinguished service order) CGRM said: ‘In a very short space of time, petty officer Collins has made an extraordinary impact to the unit and has delivered above and beyond his own sphere of activity.

‘With a gregarious nature, he ably communicates with unit members and outside agencies to achieve outcomes that continue to surprise and impress.

‘Generous with his time, petty officer Collins serves the unit and the local community impeccably. He is a great ambassador for the Royal Navy and for 42 Commando RM and thoroughly deserves formal recognition.’

Between 2018 and 2019, Andrew raised more than £15,000 for charities including fundraising for the Royal Marines Charity, Help for Heroes and supporting ‘The Rowing Marine’ Lee Spencer.

Andrew is now on the lookout for his next big charity challenge to help raise further funds for another great charity.