A NATIONAL awards scheme to recognise people who provide exceptional support to the British Armed Forces has been launched in Cheshire with support from Prince Harry.
Praising the new Friends of the Forces Awards, Prince Harry said: “These awards are an excellent idea and I am very proud to be involved.”
Prince Harry, a lieutenant with the Household Cavalry (Blues and Royals), served in Afghanistan with the British Army for more than two months.
“I know how important support from home can be,” he said. “For those serving in the British Armed Forces, the knowledge that others are thinking of them has a hugely positive effect that cannot be underestimated. I remember that very accurately.”
Jeff Harrison, the Royal British Legion’s manager for Cheshire, is now inviting members of the public to step forward with nominations:
“The Friends of the Forces Awards will say thank you to anyone in Cheshire who has contributed materially to the well-being or appreciation of our Armed Forces,” he said.
“We hear of so many amazing acts of kindness and support that we strongly urge people to submit Cheshire area nominations for these exciting new awards.”
Winners will be chosen in categories recognising individual, young individual, community group and commercial organisation contributions.
Winners will be announced in eight regions covering England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and those shortlisted for the national awards will attend a Royal gala ceremony in London in July.
To apply visit www.friendso ftheforces.org.uk or contact 0845 363 1478.