Shropshire sons honoured for achievements

Two of Shropshire's sons were the toast of London when they were honoured for their achievements by royalty.

First up was Wolves and England goalkeeping legend Bert Williams who kept a date with the Queen at Buckingham Palace yesterday to receive his MBE.

Later, George Cross recipient Staff Sergeant Kim Hughes spent an evening at an exclusive heroes dinner with Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Mr Williams travelled from his home in Shifnal to the palace for yesterday's ceremony which he said had capped off his career.

The 90-year-old, dubbed "The Cat" for his agility between the posts, said it was a magical day for him and his family and one he would never forget.

Mr Williams, who has raised £100,000 for the Alzheimer's Society in memory of his late wife Evelyn, was awarded the MBE in the Birthday Honours List for services to football and charity.

Staff Sergeant Hughes, from Aqueduct, Telford, was awarded the George Cross in June for the "single most outstanding act of explosive ordnance disposal" recorded in Afghanistan.

The 30-year-old Royal Logistic Corps soldier last night joined a gathering of more than 20 holders of the country's highest gallantry awards at St James' Palace.

Only holders of the Victoria Cross and George Cross could attend the ceremony, which included a service at St Martin-in-the Field Church awards.