There was a standing ovation for a West Molesey man when he was presented with an Arctic Star medal in front of a full council chamber last week.

Frederick Jones, known as Bob, served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War on board HMS Diadem, where he operated anti-aircraft guns, known as pom-poms.

In 1944, the cruiser’s job was to escort convoys of cargo ships from Britain to Russia, with the route taking them north of Norway and Sweden.

The Arctic Convoys had to cope with extreme weather conditions along with attacks from enemy aircrafts, submarines and surface vessels.

In June 1944, HMS Diadem was part of the naval force bombarding the French coast on D-Day as part of Operation Overlord before resuming the Arctic Convoys.

Mr Jones was just 19-years-old when he was part of the Arctic Convoys.

Unable to receive his medal from the Prime Minister earlier this year, Elmbridge Council agreed to present his medal in front of the councillors at the full council meeting on Wednesday, July 24.

Upon presenting Mr Jones with his medal, mayor of Elmbridge Councillor Mike Bennison said: “Bob completed eight missions, which is commendable and absolutely deserving of this medal.”

Speaking after the presentation, Mr Jones said: “It was very good, very nice, especially when they all stood up clapping.”

Mr Jones said he would be displaying his medal at home.