A civil servant got the surprise of his life when he was presented with a medal usually only given to military personnel.

Ian Brand

Friends and colleagues of Ian Brand, 38, a civil service manager based at Arncott, near Bicester, were told in advance that he had been awarded the Air Operations Iraq General Service Medal, but were sworn to secrecy.

At a breakfast social event Brigadier Paul Flanagan, team leader of LAIPT, the Logistic Application Integrated Project Team, presented the medal to Mr Brand in front of his friends and colleagues.

Mr Brand was given the medal for his work during a six-month attachment in Saudi Arabia, supporting the Air Force, which was policing 'no fly' zones in Iraq.

Major Alex Rennie said: "The Air Force obviously think highly of him to give a medal. This award to a civilian is very rare and is only usually given to serving personnel.

"He did not have a clue. I know him very well and had to be careful."

Afterwards Mr Brand said he felt proud.

He said: "I've been back in the country for six months and have still got my memories of being out there, but the medal is something I will keep forever."