Navy replaces damaged beret for ex-Royal Marine

An 87-year-old ex-Royal Marine commando has been presented with a new beret after his previous one shrunk in the tumble dryer.

Herbert Preece earned his green beret nearly 70 years ago after completing his training during national service.

Mr Preece was given his new beret at his nursing home in New Malden, where the previous one was "damaged accidently", the Royal Navy said.

Sgt Maj Jon Grasham, who was among those presenting the beret, said: "It was a real pleasure to be able to meet a fellow Bootneck and do something that clearly meant a great deal to him."

Mr Preece joined the 45 Commando marines between 1956 and 1957 and was deployed to countries including Malta, Italy, Egypt and Gibraltar during his two year service.

He said that he joined the marines when a lot of other people were joining the army. "I didn't want to be like everyone else and wanted some action in my life," he said.

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