AN Oxfordshire soldier has been awarded the Queen’s Gallantry Medal for outstanding bravery and exemplary leadership disposing of bombs during a six-month tour of duty in Afghanistan.

Warrant Officer (Class 2) John Lester, known as Gareth, is a Royal Logistic Corps High Threat Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD) Operator.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said the 32-year-old had disarmed 14 mines at a check point in the Spin Masjed area while under enemy fire.

That number is far beyond what a soldier would be expected to deal with, the spokesman added.

WO Lester’s citation says: “His capacity to operate under the most intense pressure has allowed him to function beyond the level normally expected of an IEDD Operator.

“Lester’s selfless and courageous actions are highly deserving of public recognition.”

He is one of 145 service personnel who has been given an award today.

WO Lester said: “I wasn’t expecting this, but then you don’t do this job for the shining medal.

“My job as I see it is to enable the infantry, or the Marines, or in this case the Afghan National Army the freedom to get on and do their job in safety, and secure the safety of the local population. What you classify as dangerous is different to what others do. You just file on from this day to the next day doing your job.

“This was the most intense fighting on ops I have done though.

“It is nice to be recognised. It’s not what you aim for, but it is nice. Even if it’s a pat on the back, or somebody shakes your hand in the street.”

He has had two tours of Afghanistan and has also served in Iraq and Northern Ireland.

WO Lester grew up in Banbury and went to the Warriner School.

* Flight Sergeant Barry Murphy, who is based at RAF Brize Norton, has been awarded the Joint Commanders Commendation for Afghanistan for his work during a toru of duty there last year.