A WORCESTER firefighter was called out to Buckingham Palace to receive his MBE for his rescue work during the floods that have ravaged Worcestershire.

Sub-officer Philip Harvey was awarded the MBE in the Birthday Honours in June this year for his work in the Easter 1998 and winter 2000 floods.

He received his award from the Queen last Friday.

As well as leading the Worcester retained firefighters, the 46-year-old is also Fleet Engineer for the Brigade and is responsible for ensuring all the vehicles are running properly.

The divorced father-of-two, who lives in Diglis, has spent 20 years in the Brigade and first joined as a mechanic.

Around 10 years ago he successfully completed his training as a fire fighter and eventually qualified as sub-officer.

He is especially proud of the part he played in helping rescue dozens of people at Abbots Salford caravan park near Evesham during the Easter Floods in 1998.

"This award isn't just for me, because without my team I wouldn't have got it," Mr Harvey said when he was told he would be awarded the honour.

"As far as I'm concerned it's an award for all of them."

n Philip Harvey surrounded by his family (left to right) Rebecca, Nick and Jean Harvey.