Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell has welcomed news that the British Empire Medal (BEM) is to be brought back.
Commenting on the announcement by the Government that hundreds of BEMs will be awarded to local heroes from next year, Mr Mundell said: "I am delighted that this revived honour will specifically recognise and pay tribute to those who have worked hard to make a difference in their communities.
“These medals will be awarded as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations next year, and in the years thereafter. I have felt in recent years that not enough people locally were being recognised by the Honours system for their contribution to the community.
“The current system is too inflexible, and too many people have missed out. That is why it's great news that local people will finally have their contributions officially acknowledged."