Stevenage defence firm MBDA has won a prestigious government award recognising its support for serving armed forces members and veterans.

MBDA has now achieved the gold award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, having held the silver award since 2014.

It joins BAE Systems, Jaguar Land Rover and Airbus at the highest level of recognition.

MBDA’s UK managing director Chris Allam said: “We are delighted to have secured the gold award, that highlights the outstanding work we do to support the armed forces and those who serve and have served within them.

“We recognise the role that employers like us play in providing opportunities for those who have protected our nation, and it is fantastic to gain recognition for the work that our staff have contributed.

“A key element of this support is the valuable contribution that service families and charities deliver on a daily basis – and it has been a real honour for many of our staff to contribute to this effort.”

He added: “MBDA and its predecessors have a long history of supporting the armed forces and of employing ex-service personnel. We gain hugely from their direct experience of the operational environment, and their personal appreciation of customer needs and aspirations.

“We are extremely proud to gain this recognition. and will continue our support of the armed forces and those who protect our country for many years to come.”

Mr Allam last month signed the Armed Forces Covenant with the Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, at the launch of the firm’s new Bolton site.

One veteran who works for MBDA is Bill Beaumont, who couples his civilian job with service in the Army Reserve.

He said: “Since I left the army five years ago and joined MBDA, the company has bent over backwards to help my transition into a new civilian career. Along with this, I have been actively encouraged to pursue a career within the Army Reserve.

“This support particularly has given me the opportunity to continue my long-held aspiration of commanding a regiment, and to experience the satisfaction that comes from leading soldiers.

“This would not have been possible without the top-to-bottom support of MBDA management, and HR policies put in place to support veterans and reservists alike.”