Lieutenant Colonel John Musgrave, commanding officer of the 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, based in Catterick, handed out HM Armed Forces Veterans Medals just a day before heading out for duty in Afghanistan.

And he described the event as "the best thing I have ever done" as he spoke to Hartlepool veterans from various wars including World War II and the Falklands.

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Lt Col Musgrave said: "This is the best thing I have ever done. I have read so much about all these wars, but to speak to the people who were there and have these experiences is a great honour.

"They have lived through the most amazing things, and they all have great stories to tell."

MP Iain Wright and Hartlepool Borough Council Assistant Chairman Bob Flintoff also spoke to the 120 veterans who turned up to the event.

Mr Wright said: "I think it is really impressive to see them here.

"As a relatively young MP, I believe it is important that we remember the sacrifices people have made for us in the past.

"We should all be eternally grateful to the town's men and women who have served their country, and I think it is important we say thank you regularly."

Tug Wilson, secretary for the Combined Services, said: "It went very well, apart from the weather.

"We had a good turnout, and we are very thankful to the Colonel for coming along and giving his precious time as he prepares to head back to Afghanistan."