Congratulations to Colour Sergeant (SCC) Mark Jones, who has been awarded a British Citizen Award for his services to the community. 

Mark, of Littleport, Ely, recently started volunteering at Cambridge Unit, where he has helped to find new instructors, train them, and launch a new Royal Marines Cadets detachment.

The British Citizen Awards (BCAs) were launched in January 2015, to recognise exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on society. They are awarded twice annually, and recognise everyday people whose achievements may otherwise be overlooked.

Mark, 46, who also has other volunteering roles in Cambridgeshire, says: "I was really surprised when I was told about the award. I don’t like watching TV very much, so I just fill my time with other things. When I was young I went to martial arts and people gave their time to run the club.

"I just think that if people don’t give their time, a lot of those sort of things wouldn’t exist. I have a young family and want my children to be able to take part in activities, which is why I’m happy to give my time to the organisations that I’m involved with.”

Mark is one of 36 medallists who will be honoured at a  ceremony on Thursday 25 January at the Palace of Westminster. The awards are sponsored by Specsavers, Places for People, Irwin Mitchel, Nathan Rous PR and Cisco. Each will be presenting the awards, alongside TV star host Bradley Walsh.