TWO lifelong friends have been rewarded after clocking up more than 100 years of service with the Royal British Legion.

Dennis Cottrell and Colin Hammond were both presented with the Legion Gold Badge, one of the highest awards the organisation can bestow, during the County Conference at Worcester's County Hall on Saturday (January 14).

They attended West Malvern CE School together and both joined the West Malvern branch of the Legion in 1953. They have been members ever since.

Mr Hammond has been the chairman for 25 years and Mr Cottrell has been secretary and treasurer for the past 21 years.

Mr Hammond said they had thoroughly enjoyed their time with the Legion and looked forward to continuing their work.

"I've certainly enjoyed every minute of it," he said. "It's hard work, especially as you get older but we're supported by a good committee and a loyal membership."

Mr Hammond described the award as a great honour and said it was fitting that both he and Mr Cottrell had been recognised at the same time.

"I'm very proud, not many people receive the gold badge and to have two awarded is a great honour for us and the branch," he said. "It's excellent that both of us have been recognised together, we've been friends and worked together all our lives."

Both men were made life members of the branch and the club this month, in recognition of their awards and long service.