A Lieutenant from Cherhill has been honoured for his dedication to training members of the Bristol University Royal Navy Unit over the last 20 years.

Lieutenant Christopher Cameron was presented with one of Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Bristol's certificate for meritorious service at a ceremony held at the Merchant Venturers' Hall in Clifton on Tuesday, December 6.

The certificate is used to reward long service of high quality and since joining Bristol URNU in 1995, Lt Cameron has mentored more than 350 students in skills such as navigation and leadership, as well as accompanying them on deployments in the UK and abroad.

The 46-year-old said: "I was totally unaware that the award was coming. In fact, when it was announced I was not too sure who the award was for so I contacted the Lord Lieutenant's office thinking it was for someone else! I was overwhelmed.

"It was particularly poignant as my brother Donald, who was also a Gordon Highlander in the Army with me many years ago, died in the summer when I was on deployment in Estonia. I chose not to go home but the Navy were extremely accommodating and would have flown me home immediately for which I am very grateful."

Lt Cameron, who taught at Melksham Oak for 12 years, received the award in front of friends and family, including his mother, who had flown down from Buckie in the North East of Scotland.

Lt Lorna Wilson, his commanding officer, said: "Lt Cameron is extremely dedicated, whilst leading by example in motivating and developing the students. He is thoroughly deserving of this award."