Bravery of soldiers recognised

Soldiers who have shown outstanding levels of bravery fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan have been recognised during an investiture ceremony hosted by the Prince of Wales.

Corporal Josh Griffiths, from the Wirral and a member of the Mercian Regiment, was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross – second only to the Victoria Cross – for fighting insurgents despite having a broken back.

Cpl Griffiths, from Eastham, Wirral, Merseyside, was injured by the blast but as the Afghan insurgents launched their assault on the base, he fought back to keep them out.

Corporal Oliver Bainbridge, of The Royal Dragoon Guards, was awarded the Military Cross for a “display of personal courage, selfless commitment and inspired leadership”.

The soldier, from Retford, has been blown up at least three times during his military career and was recognised for his brave actions in Afghanistan.

Other recipients of honours yesterday included Thomas Heatherwick, the designer who created the London 2012 Olympic cauldron, who was made a CBE.

His work was the centrepiece of the much-acclaimed Olympic opening ceremony and cemented his reputation around the world.

Keith Wilkinson also received his MBE for services to conservation in Harrogate, where his work focused on the Nidd Gorge.