Old soldier Fred Aldis has received the best Christmas present he could have had.

During the Second World War he had served in the Royal Artillery in the 1st Airborne Division and took part in a number of major operations, including Market Garden at Arnhem and the liberation of Norway in 1945.

Fred, of Wargrave Road, Clacton, was later awarded a certificate signed by King Olaf of Norway and the liberation of Norway medal.

But, within months, the cherished medal went missing in the confusion which followed the end of the war.

However, on Wednesday his family sprung a surprise on the 79-year-old war hero with the help of 2 Para at Colchester Garrison and he was presented with a replacement - 44 years on.

He has always been keen to replace the lost medal but it was thanks to his son Ken that a replacement was finally obtained.

A letter was sent to Norwegian Embassy asking for help and last month the replacement arrived.

Keen that some fellow airborne soldiers should make the presentation, Mr Aldis' son approached 2 Para, who set up the surprise presentation.

Mr Aldis senior said: "I was absolutely thrilled - everybody has done me proud."

Making the presentation was the Commanding Officer Lt Col Chip Chapman.

Mr Aldis, who is suffering from a long-term illness, and his family were able to have a chat with the officers.

Ken said: "My dad had an appointment with the hospital in the afternoon but we told him it had been brought forward."

44 years on - war veteran Fred Aldis receives his new medal from Col Chip Chapman, of 2 Para.

Picture: STEVE BAINBRIDGE

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