RAF Chinook crews based in north Hampshire have been honoured for their role in the war against the Taliban in Afghanistan.

The entire crew and support staff on 7, 18 and 27 Squadrons – all based at RAF Odiham – received The Grand Master’s Commendation from The Guild of Air Pilots and Navigators (GAPAN), a City of London Livery Company.

A crew from 7 Squadron also received the Prince Philip Helicopter Rescue Award at the presentation, held at the Guildhall in London.

Their award was for a daring mission in January to rescue 30 US and Afghanistan troops stranded in a blizzard.

The crew, led by Squadron Leader John Butler, helped to evacuate the troops whose vehicles were swamped in a river 50 miles from Kandahar Airfield.

In July, Sqn Ldr Butler received an Air Force Cross for his valour.

The Master’s Commendation, handed to station commander Group Captain Andy Turner, is only handed out in exceptional circumstances.

Rick Peacock-Edwards, master of GAPAN, said: “The crews and support staff on the three Chinook squadrons showed exceptional in-theatre flying skills, and the outstanding support from the engineers and others on the ground enabled essential operations in Afghanistan to continue on a daily basis in extreme conditions.

“Such is the threat to movement by land vehicles that the Chinook is the only way to supply essential troops with food, ammunition water and fuel.”

Group Capt Turner said: “I am immensely proud of the work my people put into providing and flying the ubiquitous Chinook. To be recognised by the Guild in this way is fantastic.”