A MARINE engineer from Runcorn has received the Queen’s Volunteer Reserve Medal.

Tony Moorcroft, a warrant officer class two with the Port and Martime Regiment, has been honoured for exemplary meritorious service during the past 33 years.

Prince Charles presented the award, one of only four this year, at an investiture ceremony in Buckingham Palace last week.

Dad-of-three Mr Moorcroft, aged 55, director of human resources at Ineos ChlorVinyls in Runcorn, said: “I was overjoyed when I found out.

“I am so proud. I feel that this is recognition for the regiment as well as for me.”

Mr Moorcroft qualified as a chief petty officer marine engineer with HMS Eaglet in Liverpool.

He served on the frontline in Iraq in 2003.

Mr Moorcroft said: “It was a challenging experience. I learnt a lot about myself.

“The reserves have given me a lot of leadership and people management skills. It has been absolutely tremendous.

“I have enjoyed coaching and mentoring young soldiers. I think it is important to pass on your skills so they can progress their careers.”

His son, James, aged 32, said: “All the family is made up for him.

“He certainly deserves it.”

Mr Moorcroft has a younger son, Sean, aged 28, daughter, Emma, aged 30 and three grandchildren.

Chris Tane, chief executive officer of INEOS ChlorVinyls said: "Tony fully deserves the Queen's Voluntary Reserve Medal for all his efforts to the reserve forces.

“We would like to congratulate him on receiving this prestigious accolade.

“We employ a small number of reservists here at our Runcorn site and we fully support the invaluable work that they do.

“In turn, we benefit from a wide range of skills that they gain during their service, such as leadership and advanced communication skills."