IT is a badge of honour and important symbol of his war-time sacrifices.

Military hero Harry Brashfield had worn his dark green beret at numerous parades and Remembrance Sunday processions in the six decades since the end of the Second World War.

The hat, with its distinctive gold star, signified that the veteran had served with the signal squadrons in the Far East campaign against the Japanese in Burma.

But the old soldier was heartbroken to find he had dropped the beret in the street near his home as he returned from a meeting of the veterans' organisation, the Burma Star Association, in April.

After several months of fruitless searching he had resigned himself to the fact that he would never see it again.

Now thanks to a good Samaritan and the Daily Echo, he has been reunited with his precious beret. An anonymous resident found the headgear and handed it in at Bitterne police station. Officers contacted us and a reporter asked the Southampton Burma Star Association if they knew of any member who had lost his beret. The BSA put us in touch with Mr Brashfield, 82, of Rampart Road, Bitterne Manor, Southampton, who was delighted to have his hat back.

He said: "I was very upset about losing the beret and I'd like to thank whoever handed it in. It has restored my faith in human nature. I really am very grateful."

Fellow Burma Star member Alfie Griffiths, 78, of Springford Close, Southamp-ton, said: "It was a very kind act. The berets are recognised head wear for the Burma Star when we are on parade."