THE crucial work of a Stourbridge based military intelligence unit will be recognised when it is granted freedom of the borough this weekend.

63 Military Intelligence Company, based at the Army Reserve Centre in Swinford Road, will receive the accolade at the Armed Forces Day celebrations at Himley Hall on Sunday June 30, where they will take part in a parade.

The company draws recruits from across the Black Country and is made up of 94 reservists who train to become military intelligence analysts to support complex operations.

Councillor David Stanley, the Mayor of Dudley, said: "Dudley Council’s Armed Forces Day celebrations are all about giving thanks to every single person who has served in the military to protect the freedom of today’s and future generations.

"For us, it also offers the most fitting opportunity to formally present freedom to the reserves serving in 63 Military Intelligence Company and recognise the vital role they play within the armed forces and ensure their contribution is never forgotten."

Major Louise Smith, Officer Commanding 63 Military Intelligence Company, said: "We are extremely proud to have this honour bestowed by Dudley Council in recognition of the service provided by our personnel.

"Our company has been based in Stourbridge for over twelve years and recruits soldiers from both the Black Country and wider Midlands area.

"In modern warfare, knowledge really is power. Military operations rely upon timely, accurate intelligence. The information gathered by our soldiers plays a vital role in protecting the British Army’s operations from hostile forces."

The unit will be presented with its freedom scroll from the Mayor of Dudley and will take part in a parade on the lawn in front of Himley Hall at approximately 2.30pm, as part of the afternoon proceedings.