Military Cross for West Sussex hero

Worthing-born and bred Flight Lieutenant Matthew Carter is to receive the award in recognition of his gallantry during the six months he served in Helmand Province in Afghanistan.

Within this time Matthew repeatedly put himself in extreme danger while working on the ground with the British Army.

Yet although armed forces are used to the unexpected, nothing could have prepared Matthew for the shock he received later on arriving at what he thought was a Christmas party.

Matthew said: "I thought we were going for Christmas drinks with the Chief of Defence staff '“ that it was just a slap on the back from my wing commander to say well done.

"Instead, they told me I was to be awarded the Military Cross."

For the full story and more photos, see the West Sussex Gazette's December 27 edition.