Ambulance crews working across Buckinghamshire were given the royal seal of approval last week after Prince Harry gave them a top award.

Some of the team at South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) were on hand to pick up the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award from the prince and Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon.

At a special event held at the Imperial War Museum in London last Monday, SCAS was one of 33 employers to be presented with the 2017 Gold Award.

The award is the highest accolade the Ministry of Defence can bestow on employers who have demonstrated outstanding support for the Armed Forces community.

SCAS chief executive Will Hancock was joined by HR manager Victoria Dooley and decruitment advisor Laura Farrow during the formal presentation.

Mr Hancock said: “It was an honour to be presented with this award by Prince Harry and Sir Michael Fallon.

“Victoria, Laura and myself were delighted to be able to tell His Royal Highness and the Defence Secretary about the fantastic support that our people and organisation give to veterans looking for a fulfilling second career and those members of our staff still serving as reservists in our Armed Forces.”

SCAS is one of only two ambulance trusts in England to have received the prestigious Gold Award.

The Trust previously held the Silver Award.

Mr Fallon added: “This year’s Gold Award winners should be extremely proud of the work they are doing to live up to the Armed Forces Covenant pledge and to promote the pledge to others.

“I’m delighted to recognise employers who make it crystal clear that regardless of size, location or sector, employing people with military skills is good for business.

“I hope others following their example, thereby delivering a better deal for veterans and armed forces families.”

The Employer Recognition Scheme encompasses three award tiers: Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Gold Award winning employers have to first make pledges under the Armed Forces Covenant, then demonstrate and advocate their support for the Armed Forces.

So far, 79 employers have been recognised with a Gold Award.