Appeal for lost Notts war hero to come forward to collect unclaimed bravery medal

A Notts war hero who played a key role in defeating Hitler is being asked to come forward to receive a prestigious Russian war medal.

Nottinghamshire County Council collected a medal at a ceremony in Doncaster on behalf of Antony David Mitchell, for his role in the Arctic Convoys during the Second World War.

But the council says it has made attempts to contact the veteran to no avail.

Council staff are now hoping a member of the public will help locate Mr Mitchell, who they believe may live in Mattersey Thorpe, north of Retford.

Soldiers gave great sacrifice for our freedom

Sailors working on the Arctic Convoys helped to make sure merchant ships carrying essential supplies could safely reach the Soviet Union.

They worked in freezing cold conditions, and many lost their lives when defending ships.

Councillor Sybil Fielding, Chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council said: “The bravery shown by sailors from the Arctic Convoys should always be remembered and respected.

“We know their great sacrifice was made for our freedom and I welcome the opportunity to honour these remarkable men.

“We are trying to make contact with Mr Mitchell or his family and hope he sees our appeal in the media.

“We are keen to express our heartfelt gratitude to present this thoroughly deserved accolade to him on behalf of the Russian Embassy.”

Video: Veterans received medals at a ceremony at Nottingham Council House last year

A second Nottinghamshire man, Leonard Mayfield who died in October 2014, was given the medal posthumously – his son, Paul Mayfield, collected the award on his behalf.

A decree from Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the medals should be given to British veterans to celebrate their work.

More than 3,300 Ushakov Medals have been awarded with a number of those going to veterans in Nottinghamshire at a ceremony at the Council House last year.

(Visited 17 times, 1 visits today)