NOBODY who has been affected by the floods which have devastated our region for the last two weeks can fail to be aware of the valiant and tireless efforts of the soldiers of 2 Signals Regiment to stem the rising waters.

In torrential rain and bitter cold, the troops have waded through icy waters and muddy quagmires lugging thousands of sandbags to bolster York's last-ditch flood defences.

In many ways the men of 2 Signals have been the cornerstone of the united effort by the city authorities and emergency services to keep the waters at bay.

Every one of the many people who have had a hand in the defence of York deserves the thanks and gratitude of all in the city.

But the soldiers of 2 Signals have toiled round the clock for days on end to protect our homes, our property and even our lives. So it is entirely fitting that their sterling work should be recognised.

Today, it is with a feeling of pride in these soldiers who have come to the aid of York in its hour of need that the Evening Press and City of York Council leader Rod Hills jointly nominate them for the honour of Freedom of the City.

It is particularly poignant that we do so on the eve of Remembrance Sunday. For tomorrow, we will remember the brave men and women who gave their lives for their country.

Today, it is only fitting we should pay tribute to the men and women of 2 Signals who have carried on that tradition and come to the rescue in our hour of need.