TWO Dorset coastguard officers have received the service's highest honour for their work following the beaching of the cargo ship MSC Napoli.

Coastguard Commander for Dorset Mark Rodaway and Lyme Bay Sector Manager Peter Pritchard received the Honorary Commodore Award from Prince Charles at Clarence House.

The award has only been presented to a serving officer once before - to West Bay coastguard volunteer Rob Malpas for his efforts trying to save the life of a man who drowned.

Mr Rodaway and Mr Pritchard are recognised for their outstanding tactical command, leadership and on-scene co-ordination to restore public order and safety on the beach' at Branscombe in Devon and for their untiring efforts in support of the salvage operation.' MSC Napoli was carrying thousands of containers when a storm damaged her hull in January last year and she was deliberately beached.

Mr Rodaway said: "Having served 19 years as a coastguard officer I've got used to dealing with some extraordinary events but this was unique."

Mr Pritchard said: "The incident was considered routine because the hard work had been done by our colleagues when the crew abandoned ship. But the vessel suffered catastrophic failure on its way to Portland.

"Basically Mark had to come up with a plan and I had to execute it."

Chief Coastguard Rod Johnson said: "Mark and Peter have received this award because of their outstanding contribution to the success of the operation, demonstrating commitment, leadership and adaptability to the highest standard."