SOUTHAMPTON MP John Denham stepped in for the Prime Minister to present a new award for Britons who helped rescue Jews during the Second World War.

Communities Secretary Mr Denham presented solid silver medallions – which bear the inscription “in the service of humanity”

– at Downing Street to men and women whose relatives had been involved in the rescue of persecuted groups during the war.

The Itchen MP said: “The men and women who helped save the lives of those persecuted by the Nazis should be a source of pride and an inspiration to future generations.”

The creation of the award was announced by Gordon Brown during a visit to Auschwitz last year.