A SECOND World War serviceman from Hampshire has been decorated with two medals - 61 years late.

Alexander Given spent nearly five years as an RAF serviceman, guarding Britain's airbases against enemy attack.

He was presented with the Defence medal and Victory medal at a party to celebrate his 84th birthday at Southampton General Hospital Social Club.

Due to a change in address Mr Given, known as Alec, never received the letter sent to all servicemen inviting them to apply for medals when he was demobbed in 1945.

It was only recently that son-in-law Brian Miles realised the mistake and applied for the medals on his behalf.

Alec, of Southampton, who is pictured on the left with Mr Miles, said: "I am absolutely delighted.

"It's lovely to be recognised. I feel so honoured to have been awarded the medals."