A local soldier has been awarded the Military Cross after showing ‘extreme bravery’ whilst serving in Afghanistan.

Captain James Higginson, 27, from Lewisham, was involved in two separate incidents during his course of duty for which he has been commended.

The former Alleyn’s School pupil said of being awarded the Military Cross: “It’s a huge honour and truly humbling to receive this medal.”

During his time in Afghanistan, Capt Higginson, a member of 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, was faced with insurgents who were armed with machine guns, rifles and grenades.

He showed what has been described as: “a constant display of leadership’ to successfully recover a large haul of enemy weapons and secure the safe release of innocent civilians whilst maintaining the safety of his platoon”.

Speaking of the incidents, he said, “It is rare to see insurgents, let alone be in a position to out-ambush them, so when we do we have to take full advantage.”  Capt Higginson, who was on his first tour of Afghanistan said that it was everything that he had expected. He also paid tribute to his fellow soldiers: “It would not have been possible to do this without the professionalism of paratroopers under my command.”

Founded in 1914, The Military Cross is awarded to soldiers in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations.