THE family of York war hero Matthew Hatton were given national recognition, as the fallen 23-year-old’s comrades returned home.

Jill and Phil Hatton collected the Elizabeth Cross, a new military honour for the family of servicemen killed in action or as a result of terrorism, at a private ceremony in Ireland.

The medal was introduced in July, with the first awards being presented in August. The Ministry of Defence says the medal is presented to the victim’s next of kin “in a mark of recognition for their loss”.

The silver medal, in the shape of a cross over a wreath, is accompanied by a Memorial Scroll signed by The Queen.

Mr and Mrs Hatton collected the medal on Wednesday, on the eve of the homecoming of their son’s regiment.

Lance Bombardier Hatton, pictured inset, of Haxby, was killed in August when he and two other British troops were caught in a double explosion in Afghanistan’s Helmand province. Yesterday, the rest of his comrades in 40th Regiment Royal Artillery held a medals parade at Thiepval Barracks in Lisburn, Northern Ireland, to mark their return.

The regiment completed more than 1,500 fire missions in their six-month deployment and suffered two losses: Lance Bombardier Hatton and Bombardier Craig Hopson.

Lieutenant Colonel Owen Adams, the regiment’s commanding officer, said: “We have all been devastated by the loss of these fine young men who died in the service of their Battery, their Regiment and their country.

“They died on the battlefield leading soldiers in the most challenging of situations; they were both exceptionally brave, proud and professional soldiers who relished the opportunity to serve in Afghanistan and were an inspiration to us all.

“This has been a fascinating and successful tour. The soldiers of 40th Regiment feel very proud of their performance in the most demanding operational tour of their lives so far. Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Bombardier Craig Hopson and Lance Bombardier Matthew Hatton.”