The Deputy Mayor of Westhoughton and a war hero has been recognised for his efforts in supporting the people of Ukraine.

Cllr Neil Maher, a Falklands war veteran, has been recognised with a special award after he sent items over to the war-torn country.

Cllr Maher, who has worked for the NHS for more than 20 years and is currently a councillor for Westhoughton South ward, organised for an ambulance to be sent to Ukraine to support the medical efforts.

And in response to his kind gesture, Ukrainian humanitarian officials sent back a message of thanks after the life-saving equipment arrived in the country.

Cllr Maher was presented with the ‘Silver Trident Award’ from Ukraine and a certificate of appreciation from Reverend Bernard Cocker, the CEO of the International Aid Trust, who approached him for help.

A hospital in Ukraine had no ambulances to transport patients and older people from areas near the front.

And Reverend Cocker said Cllr Maher’s support has made a real difference.

He said: “In the International Aid Trust Family we have so many faithful and gifted people, one of those is Neil, who is a senior director of the NHS.

“Neil served in the Armed Forces from the age of 16, a distinguished career spanning 40 years including as troop commander in the Falklands.

“He followed this with 20 years in the NHS. He is a quiet and humble man who gets things done.

“Neil knows what it's like to be in the front line and has a deep empathy with our friends in the Ukrainian Military.

“His input has been really helpful and very productive.”

Speaking about his award, Cllr Maher said: “As a former serviceman in an active war, I’m well aware of the importance of medical equipment in saving lives of not only service people but civilians who get caught up in conflicts.

“Every little thing we can do to help the people of Ukraine can go a long way.” 

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