War veteran awarded medal

A Shropshire war veteran has been awarded a prestigious medal for his service in World War Two after surviving Britain's worst maritime disaster.

James Cockburn, 92, from West Felton, near Oswestry, was one of 2,500 people saved after the 16,000-tonne Cunard liner Lancastria sank when it was bombed by German aircraft in 1940.

Mr Cockburn, a corporal, survived after he was picked up by a French minesweeper, although 4,000 lost their lives.

He went on to serve in Italy and in the desert, alongside British, American and Polish troops.

To commemorate those who fell victim to the events of that day, veterans are being honoured with the HMT Lancastria medal.

The Lancastria commemorative medal is the first of its kind instigated by the Scottish Government.

It has been issued to honour the sacrifice of those who lost their lives and the endurance of those who survived and went on to serve during the Second World War.

Mr Cockburn, originally from near Edinburgh, returned to Scotland to the Scottish Parliament to pick up the prestigious medal.

Mr Cockburn said his trip to the Scottish Parliament was an enjoyable event turning into a real family affair.

He went to Scotland and met up with his sister and one of his children, who both travelled to meet him from their homes near Edinburgh.