“The “unsung heroes” who make Suffolk the “fantastic” county it is were celebrated yesterday at the British Empire Medal ceremony.

Six people who were honoured by The Queen on New Year’s Day attended the Countess of Euston’s home in west Suffolk where Lady Clare, the Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk and Her Majesty’s representative in the county, thanked each of them for their service to the communities they live in.

The British Empire Medal, which was revived in 2012 after 20 years, is a civil and military medal for “meritorious” service.

Border Force officer Lance Cruse, who works at Felixstowe port, was honoured for his services tackling the illegal trade of protected species.

He said: “It makes me incredibly proud to be here. Since being awarded the medal I have researched my family history and I am joining many of my relatives who were honoured before me, it is great tradition.”

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Source: East Anglian Daily Times