AIREDALE Hospital has won recognition for its support of the armed forces.

It is among just five organisations from West Yorkshire to receive the accolade as part of the Government's Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

Other recipients include Bradford Council.

Certificates, signed by Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson and Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nick Carter, have been awarded.

At the presentation ceremony – at the Guildhall in Hull – winners were praised for their flexible working practices and other support they give to reservists, Cadet Force adult volunteers, veterans and the families of service personnel.

Reservists can be mobilised whenever and wherever needed, to serve alongside Britain's regular armed forces.

"I offer my congratulations to the companies and authorities receiving awards and am delighted their hard work and commitment has been recognised," said Air Commodore Ian Stewart, chairman of the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Yorkshire and the Humber.

"The network of organisations that has committed to the armed forces is extensive and these award winners now join our special group here in the Yorkshire region which works to ensure the reserves are resourced and trained to protect us in times of conflict.

"Our Royal Navy, army and Royal Air Force reserves make-up a considerable proportion of the United Kingdom’s military strength – they are an integral part of our armed forces and are trained to a high standard. Only with the support of these businesses can we truly realise this latent capability.

"The year ahead will inevitably bring challenges, but with the continued support and loyalty of these organisations, we will face future challenges better prepared with a collective determination to protect our country."

Airedale NHS Foundation Trust said it was delighted with the award.

Nick Parker, director of human resources and workforce, added: "We are proud of our staff that also serve as reservists. We recognise and understand the importance of their role and are happy to support them."

Guests at the ceremony included senior armed forces representatives and Lord Lieutenants from across the region.

The presentations were made by West Yorkshire Lord Lieutenant Ed Anderson and naval regional commander, Commodore Phillip Waterhouse.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme was launched as a result of the 2013 Government white paper, Reserves in the Future Force 2020: Valuable and Valued.

Bronze, silver and gold awards are available to employers pledging and advocating support to the armed forces community. Airedale collected a silver award.

Although the scheme is primarily aimed at private-sector organisations, public bodies such as the emergency services, local authorities, NHS trusts and executive agencies are also eligible for recognition.