TWO Northumbria Police volunteers have been formally recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Special Constables Michael Scott and Jonathan Neil Gray have become Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM) in recognition of their service to policing.

Michael, from Hexham, joined the force in 1983 and has served the communities of Tynedale and Redesdale as a volunteer for nearly four decades.

He is self-employed and works in agriculture.

READ MORE: Johnny Depp to appear at Sage Gateshead

READ MORE: New McDonald's restaurant and drive-thru in Hexham set to open tomorrow

His community devotion and desire to give back to the local area sees him volunteer as a Special Constable, giving up hundreds of hours every year to support the Force.

Former PC Gray joined the Force in 1978 and was stationed in Gateshead before moving to Ponteland.

He retired in June 2008 after 30 years of service, started volunteering as a Special two days later, and has served the community of Ponteland since.

Jonathan volunteers in the 102nd Battalion, the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Reserves Pipe Band, where he plays as a drummer. The band play regularly, raising money at charitable events.

After being notified of their British Empire Medals, both admitted they have been 'blown away' by the recognition.

Michael, 61, said: "Words can't describe how honoured I am to be recognised in this way. It's even more special given that it's our Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – I'm absolutely delighted.

"When I first joined Northumbria Police as a volunteer I wanted to do something else other than my every day work to contribute a little bit of my time helping others and to try to make a difference. After all these years I would like to think I have.

"I work alongside our new rural crime volunteers who are making a difference in the countryside, and all the other emergency services who do a fantastic job.

"My police colleagues who I have stood shoulder to shoulder with over the years, sometimes in some very sad and tricky situations, I admire and respect every single one of them for the job they do keeping us safe every day. It is a privilege to work alongside them."

Jon, 64, often works up to 20 hours weekly in his Special role, and said: "Having been posted in Ponteland since 1990 I do this duty out of a sense of loyalty to the service and the area.

"I'm pleased to continue to serve the community of Ponteland, which I know well.

"I still assist full-time officers and I'd like to think I help new recruits. This recognition is humbling and I was very surprised to get the call.

"I often think my career has been similar to the film Forrest Gump, I never had anything planned but I've been fortunate to work in a number of roles and have landed on my feet.

"I feel fortunate to have had the experiences through policing that I've had," he said.

Northumbria Police Chief Constable Winton Keenen QPM praised both Specials for their commitment and congratulated them on their honours.