A naval officer inspired to join up after a school visit when he was 14 has received a rare award in recognition of his services to the Royal Navy.
Keiryn Moffitt, 36, who grew up in Maldon, before moving to Southminster and attending St Peter's High School, Burnham, now holds the rank of Warrant Officer Second Class, the second highest rank he can reach.
Keiryn first got interested in the Navy when career officers brought a Sea King helicopter to his school.
He said: "I thought I want to be involved with that.
"I have worked on them since joining aged 18.
"I have had an amazing, amazing career and absolutely loved it."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here