The council has been recognised for its "great work" with the armed forces community.

The local authority has been awarded the gold award for the second time in the Armed Forces Covenant Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

The covenant is a pledge to support members of the armed forces community in their communities, in recognition of their dedication and sacrifice.

The council provides various forms of support, including supervising military services and parades, helping veterans with their practical needs and social networks, assisting with funerals, and working with cadet units.

Cllr Judith Lloyd, armed forces champion at the council said: "This gold award, presented to us for the second time, validates the exemplary support and ongoing commitment that the council provides to the Armed Forces community across the borough.

"We are delighted and honoured to receive it."

First conferred in 2019, the status has now been revalidated, confirming Trafford as a "leader" in military matters in the Greater Manchester area.

This position allows Trafford to mentor other councils to help them reach the gold standard.

Garrie Stockley served in the Royal Navy as a medical assistant for eight yearsGarrie Stockley served in the Royal Navy as a medical assistant for eight years (Image: Supplied)

One of the veterans the council has assisted is Garrie Stockley, a former Royal Navy able seaman who became a police officer but had to retire due to "serious injuries and mental health problems".

Mr Stockley served as a medical assistant for eight years, touring the Gulf, Mediterranean, Africa, and Far East.

He was also part of the honour guard for Prince Charles, and paraded in the Hong Kong handover in 1997.

After leaving the Navy, Mr Stockley joined Greater Manchester Police as a neighbourhood officer in Stretford for nine years before moving to Shetland, where he worked as a salmon farmer.

He suffered a serious head injury at work there, and could not walk or talk for several months.

After recovering, he was involved in a serious car accident.

Though well enough to rejoin the police, he then tore his Achilles on duty.

All these injuries led Mr Stockley to develop a "debilitating neurological disorder" that led to him being medically retired.

The change of lifestyle, and reliance on his wheelchair, impacted Mr Stockley, who is married with three children, and his mental health "plummeted".

The council found more suitable housing in Sale for Mr Stockley and his family and introduced him to the Spearhead Foundation, a social hub for ex-servicemen and women.

Mr Stockley said: "I then hit rock bottom with my mental health.

"But the council’s armed forces lead, Sue Wright, offered support and help and put me in touch with folk.

"I might not be here today if it wasn't for her support."