AN old soldier who lost treasured medals when he was attacked by thugs on his way to a Remembrance Sunday service has been presented with replacements at a special ceremony at Catterick Army base.

George Gill, of Keighley, also lost his beret and cap badge in the Lund Park robbery, as well as the two medals awarded for serving in Northern Ireland and Cyprus which he wore over his heart.

Mr Gill, 69, was an infantryman with the Duke of Wellington's Regiment for 18 years and made repeat tours of duty in northern Ireland during the height of The Troubles in the early 1970s.

Since the despicable crime, he has received a flood of support from across the country as well as from Keighley townsfolk.

And Prime Minister David Cameron, and former international footballer Ryan Giggs, who is now assistant manager at Mr Gill's favourite team, Manchester United have both sent him letters of consolation and support.

Yesterday morning he was contacted by the Coldstream Guards regiment and invited to a ceremony and lunch at the North Yorkshire garrison.

“It was tremendous news – absolutely brilliant!” said a delighted Mr Gill.

“I’m very excited about getting the replacement United Nations and Northern Ireland medals although I don’t have my blazer anymore.

“I didn’t want a reminder of what happened so I took of the embroidered badge and sewed it onto another jacket.

“And I ripped up the blazer and threw it away.”

This morning Regimental Tailoring Sergeant Martin Mitchell from the Coldstream Guards arrived at Mr Gill’s home to drive him north for the special ceremony where he was officially decorated with the new medals.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

"I was annoyed by what happened and knowing how important medals are to serving soldiers and veterans I thought it would be nice to do something to restore Mr Gill's faith in society.

"He's an absolute gentleman and it's important the public knows that past or present, the armed forces family will always look after its own," said Sgt Mitchell, who has arranged a VIP day for Mr Gill with a formal presentation and lunch at Catterick Garrison.

Following the assault, West Yorkshire Police put out an appeal for information from anyone who saw a group of Asian youths acting suspiciously in the park at around the time of the incident.

People can call Bradford District CID on 101, or 0800 555111 to contact Crime Stoppers.

MORE TOP STORIES