A PILOT at RAF Benson has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list.

Sqn Ldr Toby Sawbridge, 42, who flies Merlin helicopters, is currently the second in command of 28 Squadron.

He was honoured for his contribution to the RAF and for his co-ordination of the station’s charitable efforts.

Recently he swam a marathon with colleagues along the River Thames in aid of the Royal British Legion.

The charity committee he oversees has raised more than £200,000 for charity. Sqn Ldr Sawbridge was doing this work despite the death of his father, Richard, in a road accident in January 2012.

He said: “My father was a stalwart of the community himself and I am certain he would have been very proud, both of the impact we have had on the local community and, of course, of the award of an MBE to his son.”

Sqn Ldr Sawbridge, a father-of-two, is originally from Devon and joined the RAF in 1989 as a pilot.

He has completed two tours of Afghanistan.

Group Captain Nigel Colman, station commander at RAF Benson, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Sqn Ldr Sawbridge’s outstanding contribution to the Royal Air Force, and indeed the country, has been recognised through the award of the MBE.

“State awards are subject to a rigorous selection process and this is extremely well deserved, providing undeniable recognition for his remarkable achievements.”