FAMILIES of RAF servicemen killed in a plane crash, whose victims included a Christchurch man, have criticised the decision to award an OBE to the man in charge.

Wing commander Martin Cannard was named in the new years honours list.

He was head of 120 squadron at the time an RAF Nimrod crashed in Afghanistan, killing 14 people including former Highcliffe School pupil Leigh Mitchelmore.

A board of inquiry found last month there were a number of contributing factors and the most likely cause was escaping fuel igniting against a hot pipe.

Graham Knight, who lost his son Ben Knight, 25, said the OBE decision "beggars belief".

He said: "We've had very little interaction with Mr Cannard and if anyone deserves the award it is the visiting officers we all had."

Shona Beattie, whose Dundee-born husband Steve died in the crash, said: "He's got this in the face of the dead men and he doesn't deserve it."

Mr Mitchelmore had moved to Elgin, near his RAF base, with Bournemouth-born wife Claire, 26, and their two children.

He was a member of the Christchurch-based Seagulls Swimming Club and was named its male swimmer of the year in 1995.

Mrs Mitchelmore said last month: "It is unacceptable that nearly all military aircraft are ageing.

"I feel that they were utterly let down by all those they put their trust in."

The MOD said Mr Cannard received the award for his extraordinary devotion, compassion and leadership after the crash.

A spokesman said: "He devoted large swathes of his time to the bereaved families both in person and in providing advice to the various welfare elements involved."

The Nimrod came down near Kandahar in September 2006.