I was recently visited in the Town Hall by a resident who has been working tirelessly on getting an official national defence medal for members of the armed forces who have served their country since the Second World War in conflicts such as Korea, Suez and the Falklands.

At the moment private companies make commemorative medals which veterans can buy but which they cannot wear on marches for instance on Remembrance Sunday or on Veteran’s Days.

With the borough having its own Veteran’s Day as part of the Havering Show this year, I think it would be a fitting tribute to the commitment, dedication and courage of the men and women of our armed forces to be recognised with a National Defence Medal and this is something that I would like to personally endorse.

In Havering we will all remember the story of Lance Corporal Kirk Redpath from Romford who gave his life in the service of his country and his contribution like that of the many thousands of service personnel on active duty should be recognised with a National Defence Medal.

Please let me know what you think about this important campaign.

Michael