A PRESTON Wing Commander's efforts in the Kosovo war have been recognised by the Queen.

Preston-born Tim Almond has been told he is to receive the Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service in recognition of his efforts in organising NATO's flying missions over the Serbia and Kosovo last year.

Tim, now based at Ministry of Defence Headquarters in London, will collect the accolade later in the year.

He saied: "It was something of a surprise when I opened the letter and was told I was receiving this award. It is certainly an honour.

"During the conflict, I was working at our RAF bases in Northern Italy, working within the Combined Air Operations Centre as a Senior Operations Officer.

"I was closely involved with the highly successful Kosovo air campaign and I think that is why I am getting this honour."

It won't be the first time Tim has met the Queen to receive an award. In 1986, he was awarded with the MBE for his work on testing new aircraft for the RAF, who he has worked for since leaving the former Preston Catholic College in Winckley Square in 1972.

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