A DEDICATED and caring soldier who looks after the welfare of a battalion has been appointed an MBE.

Colour Sergeant Bernard Catterall, an ex-resident of Coppull and former pupil of Parklands High School, Chorley, was mentioned on the Queen's Birthday Honours List and received the medal at a ceremony in Buckingham Palace.

Col Sgt Catterall is welfare officer for the 1st Battalion of The Queens Lancashire Regiment, based in Catterick, Yorkshire.

The father-of-six, said: "I look after the overall welfare of the battalion when they are doing operations, like in Northern Ireland, and also in peace time. This can involve some counselling, but hopefully not too much.

"I serve as somebody to talk to. But it is not just me, I have got a good team with me as well."

Col Sgt Catterall, 41, joined the army in 1978 as a fresh-faced 18-year-old and has served across the world in the regiment.

He has been stationed in Bosnia, Northern Ireland, Canada, Berlin and Munster, as well as in various bases around the UK.

On the day he received his award Col Sgt Catterall, who was recommended by his colleagues for the honour, said: "It was a nice day, very formal. The Queen asked me where the regiment is currently based. She is interested as she is colonel-in-chief of the Queen's Lancashire Regiment."

And although he thinks he will soon be joining civilian life Col Sgt Catterall is proud of his achievements.

He said: "It's nice to be told you have done something right now and again isn't it?"