Ashfield District Council collected the Gold Award for Outstanding Support to the Armed Forces last night (Thursday 25 November).

The Council was the only District Council, and one of just 11 organisations in the East Midlands, to receive the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award.

Representing the highest possible badge of honour, Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards are awarded to those that employ and support those who serve, veterans, and their families.

Councillor Tom Hollis, Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Theresa Hodgkinson, Chief Executive of the Council and Gillian Welch, the Armed Forces Covenant Lead Officer, attended the awards ceremony at Royal Armouries in Leeds.

Councillor Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: "We are immensely proud and humbled to have received this prestigious award last night. Here at Ashfield District Council, we pride ourselves on our support for the armed forces. We promote positive engagement with the extended armed forces family both inside and outside of the Council.

"We will continue to be a champion of the Armed Forces and ensure that service personnel, families and veterans can access the help and support available."

To win an award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, Reserves, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.

Organisations must also advocate the benefits of supporting those within the Armed Forces community by encouraging others to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and engage in the Employer Recognition Scheme.

Additionally, Ashfield District Council has implemented a war memorial restoration plan and rolling cleaning programme, formally approved an Employing Reservists Policy and provided concessionary rates for veterans and serving personnel at all of its leisure centres.