A VOLUNTEER who has dedicated 12 years to repairing historic ships and submarines has been honoured by the Queen.

Alan Bates was delighted to find out he had been made an OBE in the New Year's Honours list.

The 58-year-old chairman of the Chatham Historic Dockyard Volunteer Service was given the award for his services to heritage.

The construction lecturer had repaired vessels, including HMS Cavalier, to allow the dockyard society to create naval displays.

Mr Bates, of Heron Hill, Meopham, said: "I love what I do and this is such a surprise.

"I never thought I would get one of these but I am pleased to receive it on behalf of the whole organisation."