A WING Commander based at RAF Lyneham has been recognised for his command, leadership and management excellence.

Craig Stanniforth, of the Defence Medical Services (DMS) was given an award to recognise the impact he has had on team performance and morale.

Five other colleagues were also given the same award. They are the first of 27 officers to achieve the accolade.

As part of their final assessment, Wing Cmdr Stanniforth had to explain how he made a measured difference to DMS operations.

He also had to submit a portfolio of work for online assessment, obtain appraisals from colleagues and complete the process with a panel interview, conducted by the institute's assessors.

Their success was measured against six nationally recognised skill sets, including leadership, managing change, information and resources. It will also be used as a benchmark for other colleagues in the DMS. Mr Stanniforth said: "This recognition highlights the senior management status that many Armed Forces senior officers gain with a full and rewarding military career.

"Our training and experience can now be validated and benchmarked independently, translating military competencies into civilian currency."