Shropshire Chamber of Commerce has been officially recognised for its support of the Armed Forces Covenant.

The team has been given a Silver Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

Colonel Richard Maybery, chief executive of the West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, said: “I am very conscious of the work that goes on behind the scenes to gain this level of recognition.

“I offer my sincere congratulations to Shropshire Chamber on behalf of our Association.

“Through the Employer Recognition Scheme, the Ministry of Defence publicly recognises the commitment and support that companies are demonstrating, through being a supportive employer and acting as advocates for the people in the Armed Forces community.

“We are really grateful for the Chamber’s positive attitude and policies towards the Armed Forces family and look forward very much to working with them to develop that advocacy further to achieve the next level of recognition as an exemplar employer supporting Defence.”

Shropshire Chamber chief executive Ruth Ross said the Silver Award was testimony to the strong relationships that had been developed between local businesses and the armed forces.

“We are very honoured to receive this award and we pride ourselves on the policies and strategies we have in place to support the members of the armed forces in our business community.

“To be recognised in this way is wonderful news for our entire team and we’re looking forward to working closely with the Association in the future to see how we can offer even greater support for those who serve or who have served our country.”

Ruth will now receive the award on behalf of the Chamber at the National Memorial Arboretum in September.