THE Accrington-educated army officer who took charge of the battle against foot and mouth has collected a CBE for his role in combating the disease.

Brigadier Alex Birtwistle, who now lives in the Lune Valley, attended Buckingham Palace to receive his honour from the Prince of Wales.

It was awarded to him in the New Year Honours for his services during the epidemic.

The brigadier went to the Buckingham Palace ceremony with his wife Ann and daughters Harriet, 13, and Sophie, 11.

He received his gong a year to the day since the first case of the disease was confirmed, at an abattoir in Essex.

The 53-year-old said he could go on for hours about the lessons which could be learned.

After receiving his CBE Brig Birtwistle said he was due to meet Dr Iain Anderson, the chairman of one of the inquiries, next week to discuss the evidence he is to give at a forthcoming inquiry.

"I would be surprised if I don't have something useful to add. I shall do my duty and answer the questions truthfully," he said.