A GROUP of Second World War veterans who fought in the Far East have finally been given a civic honour.

Members of the Thurrock Branch of the Burma Star Association were granted the Freedom of the Borough at a recent council meeting where members unanimously agreed the recognition.

Councillor Carl Morris (Lab, Grays Riverside) said: “This honour for the Burma Star Association is long overdue.

“I believe it’s right for this council and borough to record our gratitude for the sacrifices they made for our nation.

“They are an ever-dwindling number of veterans and over time the group will cease to exist.

“In the words of King George VI, no army ever had to encounter such a vicious and fanatical enemy or a hostile environment, rife with all kinds of debilitating diseases.

“I very much hope we will now honour all our local veterans of all conflicts in a similar way.”

The Thurrock branch was formed in 1961 and members must have served in Burma between December 11, 1941, and September 2, 1945.

After the meeting, a delighted branch president, Albert England, and his wife Win, appealed to all holders of the Burma Star medal – which was presented to every member of the armed forces who served a day or more during the campaign – to attend the presentation ceremony when it is arranged.

Councillor Eddie Hardiman (Con, Stanford-le-Hope West) said those who fought in Burma during the Second World War were known as “the Forgotten Army”, adding: “It’s wonderful that we can honour them and remember them in this way.”

Councillor Barrie Lawrence (Lab, Ockendon) said: “I know several people who hold the Burma Star campaign medal, and there’s no greater tribute we can offer them than to do what we are doing here tonight.”

The honour, which was agreed at a full council meeting on Wednesday November 26, comes after a political row between councillors in October almost threatened to derail any agreement.