FORMER soldiers are being urged to collect unclaimed war medals and get the recognition they deserve. St Albans MP Anne Main has heard of many veterans, particularly those who fought in World War Two, who have not claimed their war medals, often because t

FORMER soldiers are being urged to collect unclaimed war medals and get the recognition they deserve.

St Albans MP Anne Main has heard of many veterans, particularly those who fought in World War Two, who have not claimed their war medals, often because they were trying to forget the horrors they saw.

She regularly meets veterans and hears the same story time and time again.

She pointed out that service medals could be a strong symbol for children and grandchildren of the value of living in peaceful times and she wanted to make sure that everyone who wanted to claim a medal for their service could do so.

She said: "These brave veterans risked their lives for our country and they deserve to be recognised for their service."

She added that the next of kin could claim medals for deceased soldiers.

Anyone trying to claim their own or a family member's medals should write to Anne Main MP at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA, giving the service member's number, full name, date of birth, approximate dates of service and full current address.