A WAR veteran has been presented with a new commemorative badge after his previous one went missing.

Ron Bell, 91, of Darlington believes his previous veterans’ badge was stolen from the lapel of his jacket and asked the town’s MP, Alan Milburn, to look into getting another badge.

On Thursday, Mr Milburn arrived at the home of Mr Bell, at George Short Close, to present him with the replacement badge.

Mr Milburn said: “These medals are a small token of recognition of the monumental effort men and women made during the war to protect our country.

“It’s only right and proper that this generation of heroes is recognised, remembered and honoured in this way.”

And he added: “I want as many veterans as possible to come forward and claim their medal to remind this generation and future generations of their proud moment in history.”

Mr Bell served in the RAF’s maintenance unit during the war, repairing planes in England and Canada.

He said: “I was pleased to get the medal back. I like to wear it when I go out. I’ll try not to lose this one.”