A WAR veteran who waited seven decades to receive recognition for serving on the Arctic Convoys died just days before being handed his medal.

But old soldier, Eric Alley, had fortunately seen his Arctic Star award before passing away at a Westbourne care home at the age of 89, on May 17.

Instead, his son, Michael, represented him at Sunrise Senior Living in Poole Road, on Thursday, as Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Mrs Anthony Pitt-Rivers, presented the medals for three residents who sailed on the Arctic Convoys from 1941-1945.

Michael said: “It was a great honour to receive his medal. My father had actually seen it before he died, and we kept it for him in the safe, so we knew where it was.

“I found it a privilege and an honour to be there and I believe that I collected the medal not only for my father, but on behalf of his colleagues as well.”

Richard Gillett OBE, 93, and Bill Watson, 92, also proudly took ownership of their Arctic Star medals, as two of around just 200 recipients still alive to tell the tale.

Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Mrs Anthony Pitt-Rivers said: “They are all very deserving people if you look back at their distinguished careers during the Second World War, and their distinct bravery and contribution to a very significant campaign.

Mrs Pitt-Rivers went on to say although the Arctic Convoy happened a long time ago, she was sure that each of the three men would remember their act of service well.

She added: “I think that the Defence Minister, Mark Francois, summed it up well when he said that all those who served in the Arctic Convoy deserve nothing but the utmost respect and admiration from us.

“It is very important that you receive this award in recognition of the service that you offered your country.”