A Bicester soldier has spoken of his delight at being honoured for his bravery when he saved two policemen while serving in Northern Ireland.

Pte Crowie

Private Jason Crowie, of 23 Pioneer Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps, based at St David's Barracks, has been awarded a Mention In Dispatches.

Pte Crowie, 21, who is from the Atlantic island of St Helena, was in Northern Ireland last year when he was called to a riot in Belfast. He was driving an armoured vehicle when he saw a crowd attacking a police Land Rover. He drove up to the police vehicle to stop it being pushed over, although petrol bombs were being let off. Both vehicles were driven to safety.

He said: "I feel honoured to receive the award. I was a bit afraid, but it was instinct to go and help."

The award, a silver oak leaf badge, which can be added to his Northern Ireland service medal, will be presented later this year.