War veterans are being urged to wear their armed forces lapel badges in the run-up to Sunday, July 10, the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, to remind people of the sacrifices they made.

The badges are designed to be worn with civilian dress to give recognition to those who served their country.

War widows and widowers also qualify for the badge, as well as people who served in the Cyprus Regiment, the Merchant Navy, Home Guard and Polish Forces under UK command.

Worcester MP Mike Foster is writing to veterans' groups to ensure they are aware of the badge, while his office staff will help veterans claim them.

He added: "My office has the necessary forms and will help as many people as we can. "It is the least I can do to honour those who served our country at the time of its greatest need."

Richard Jerrold, branch secretary of Claines Royal British Legion, says medals and badges commemorating the war play an important role.

"All our veterans are extremely proud to wear them and you'll see them at every Royal British Legion event."

Arthur Morgan aged 77, a veteran, of Winfield Road, Claines, wears his medals and badges with pride on parade, but would feel conspicuous elsewhere.

He feels we should also remember the hardship and suffering endured by those who stayed at home.

"I know we done a good job but I think we should give more credit to the civilians. In my opinion the civilians suffered a lot more than they did in the forces".

Mr Morgan says civilians lived with the fear of bombs and the discomfort of food shortages, and the sacrifices and hardship they endured should also be remembered.

Veterans can contact Mr Foster on 01905 26504, or write to him at 24 Sansome Walk, Worcester.