MANY congratulations go to Captain Jessica Tyson, Sedgemoor District Council's deputy harbour master, who has been awarded the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service.

The honour is awarded to those who are serving or have served in the Merchant Navy and fishing fleets of the UK, Isle of Man or Channel Islands for exemplary service and devotion to duty, rewarding those who have set an outstanding example to others.

Coinciding with Merchant Navy Day which this year was on Tuesday, September 3.

A spokesman for Sedgemoor District Council said: "It provides an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of our brave seafarers of the past and to show our appreciation for British shipping today and in the future."

Only twenty honours are awarded each year.

Jessica was awarded the honour for “services to the careers of young seafarers and women in maritime”, and she will be presented with the medal at a ceremony at Trinity House in November.