A SQUADRON has been presented with operational service medals after returning from a gruelling tour of Afghanistan.

RAF personnel with the Tactical Communications Wing (TCW) of the 90 Signals Unit were all given their medals at Royal Air Force Leeming in North Yorkshire this week by the Mayor of Bedale, Councillor Mandi Coates and Group Captain John Wariner.

The squadron were in Afghanistan between April and August this year. Their main task was to set up secure communications and computer equipment for RAF personnel.

On parade after completing his first tour of Afghanistan was Senior Aircraftsman Jamie Reid, who has been with the TCW for nine months.

He said: "Afghanistan wasn’t what I expected.

“It was hard work and I suppose the first month was the hardest. The last two months got easier as we could see the end of the tour.

“We were given phone cards that enabled us to call home every week. We also received parcels and electronic letters called ‘e-blueys’ off family and friends on a regular basis."

His mother, Julie Reid, was watching her son receive his medal. She said she had refused to watch any news about Afghanistan while her son was away as it would upset her.

She added: "It was amazing when Jamie got back. I had promised him that I wouldn’t throw him a party, but we did. All his family were there to meet him and all of his mates were in the back room."