A MAYOR is calling for recognition for a town's sons killed on wartime munitions convoys.

Ships' crews were recruited in Middlesbrough during the Second World War for dangerous supply voyages to Russia.

The slow-moving freighters loaded with ammunition, tanks, planes, guns and locomotives were easy prey for Nazi U-boats, battleships and bombers, which sent many to the bottom of the Arctic Ocean.

Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon has now added his name to a petition calling for medals to be awarded to those involved in the campaign.

He said: "I am aware there were many involved in the Russian convoys who were from Middlesbrough. And this campaign to reward the veterans of those convoys is long overdue."

Commander Eddie Grenfell, 84, leader of the national campaign for recognition, said: "How wonderful it is to find people in high position who can see the importance of those convoys and who are prepared to help us. It is sad that people in Government don't see it in the same way.

"The 22,000 aircraft and 13,800 tanks shipped over to Russia tipped the balance. If Russia had been defeated, the Americans and the British would never have been able to land in Normandy."

Mr Mallon signed a petition form presented to him by 82-year-old convoys survivor Jimmy Taylor, of Grove Hill, Middlesbrough.

The pensioner said: "One Middlesbrough family I know lost both a husband and a brother - I think on the same ship - and they never heard anything from the Government."

Campaigners are organising a protest march through Whitehall in May.