TO the tens of thousands of soldiers who served in treacherous conditions in Egypt's canal zone, Whitehall's failure to recognise their sacrifices is nothing short of injustice.

Decades after the operation, which preceded the Suez Crisis of 1956, those who suffered appalling injuries continue to fight - this time for some official reward for their efforts.

That the Government has failed so far to offer the General Service Medal still rankles with the forces which were thrust into the perilous operation to keep the Suez Canal open and protect it against terrorist threats.

Danger was all around in a guerrilla war aimed at the British presence by Egyptian nationalists, and about 300 soldiers lost their lives.

But, despite receiving no honour from the British Government he fought for, Arnold Dunning is now the proud owner of a medal remembering his efforts - and it was presented to him by the Egyptian military.

The 68-year-old, from Darlington, who carried out his national service from 1954 to 1955, was back on familiar terrority recently, when he visited old camps and the British military cemeteries in Egypt.

After visiting cemeteries at Fayid, Moascar and Tel El Kebir, the trip - organised by the Middle East Land Forces Association - took an unexpected turn.

The 50-strong group of veterans and family members became the first to be invited into the Moascar and Maryen military camps.

There, in the headquarters of the Egyptian 2nd Army, they were presented with engraved medals of honour by General Abdul El Glail El Fakhrany.

"It was a symbol of friendship between the two peoples," said Mr Dunning, who had returned to the area for the first time with his wife, Shirley.

"It was so emotional because we just didn't expect it at all. We were in there with the General, lieutenants, majors and other soldiers and they treated us like royalty.

"Fifty years ago, it was nothing like this, yet this man opened his garrison to us and was absolutely brilliant."

Veterans hope that the presentation of the Egyptian military medals, which reads, A gesture of honour from the Great 2nd Egyptian Army, will spur the British Government into a similar move.

He said: "We're just hoping that we'll get one soon, because it really is about time."

Campaigners are continuing to press their case with key government figures, but have had numerous setbacks.

Medals for service are not usually considered five years after an event or conflict. But the veterans say that, as no medal was contemplated at the time, one could be issued now.