TomNorton published Ex-RAF serviceman awarded medal for saving Cypriot families...

When Turkish troops raided Greek villages and communities as havoc broke out in Cyprus during the 'bloody Christmas' of 1963, a man from Basford was on hand to help save women and children.Philip Backler – then a young RAF transport driver – covered his truck in a white sheet to disguise himself as a member of the Red Cross.Now, the proud 78-year-old has been awarded a general service medal for his efforts – more than half a century later.He said: "The British...