A former Ilkley Grammar School pupil has received a prestigious Royal Air Force award.

Sergeant George Denman was recently presented with the Chief of the Air Staff Commendation during a ceremony at RAF Marham in Norfolk.

He was commended for his exceptional commitment and performance in his core duties, his dedication during the past seven years to his voluntary secondary duties, and his support to the local community.

He was presented with his award by Air Vice Marshal Stuart Atha, the Air Officer Commanding of One Group.

Sgt Denman’s performan- ce has led to his selection as an instructor at the Tornado Maintenance School, and led him to be appointed as the Avionic Trade Manager and Squadron’s Force Development co-ordinator.

His voluntary duties include being a leading member of the RAF Marham Charity Committee, and he is the deputy officer in charge of the station’s Driving Experience Weekends. Since commencing this role in 2005, he has been instrumental in raising more than £200,000 for station charities.

He has served as a member of the station’s First Response Team since 2006. He was appointed team leader in 2008, and his performance has been recognised by the Ambulance Service, with his appointment as the only solo responder in Norfolk.

Air Vice Marshal Atha said Sgt Denman had been an exemplary ambassador for RAF Marham, and his dedication to the wider community make him deserving of this commendation.