A ROSS-ON-WYE soldier was recently awarded a certificate of commendation in formal recognition of outstanding service.

Warrant Officer Class One Andy Jones was presented with the commendation by General Officer Commanding (GOC), Support Command, Major General Robert Nitsch at Headquarters 143 (West Midlands) Brigade, in Shrewsbury.

Brigade Chief of Staff, Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Mills read out Warrant Officer Jones citation in front of the officers, soldiers and civilians at the barracks. It included Andy's instrumental support to seriously wounded soldiers from Afghanistan at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, in Birmingham, which had a very positive effect on their recovery. It also included recognition of his comprehensive, real-life support planning, and operational contributions to recent UK operations including flood relief in the local area.

He was also recognised for his invaluable contribution to army recruiting and his charity work with Marie Curie and the ABF The Soldiers' Charity, including exposure on the BBC Countryfile programme last September with Matt Baker and Ellie Harrison at the Ludlow Food Festival.

Major Peter Walker described Andy as a truly inspirational and a naturally talented leader who demonstrated total commitment, enthusiasm and selflessness and whose outstanding contributions have been a 'tour de force', making very tangible improvements for the regional brigade.

Andy, who is originally from Mitcheldean, has a wife Becky and two young children. Andy has now retired after 24 years regular service and is enjoying a new military chapter with the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia) in Monmouth.