Richard Cordier, a contracts manager for Inviron, the leading building services and facilities management provider, has been awarded the prestigious Meritorious Commendation - an award that is just one step from an MBE - for the work he did at RAF Odiham in North Hampshire.

The citation for the Commander-in-Chief Land's Award for Meritorious Service reads: 'This award is presented in recognition of exceptional achievement and is only given to those who have shown 'highly meritorious' conduct, above and beyond that expected in the execution of their normal daily duties.'

In 2005, Inviron undertook two major projects at the base with a total contract value of approximately £210,000.

The work included refurbishment of existing technical accommodation, building new offices, a new internal cell, new stores and a multitude of mechanical and electrical works.

At that time, Richard was Staff Sergeant Cordier serving with the Royal Engineers.

During 2005, RAF Odiham under went a reorganisation of the station in order to make it more efficient and cost effective.

This work had to be undertaken so as not to affect the operational capability of the station, which Inviron achieved along with completing the contracts within a 10-week period.

Mr Cordier said: "In my capacity as the Clerk of Works (Construction) RE, working for DCRE, I was given the responsibility of overseeing these projects.

"This included compiling the client's requirements, carrying out an investment appraisal, option studies, designing and producing detailed specifications and working drawings, structural calculations, costing the work and formulating a programme from inception to completion, as well as ensuring the work was completed on time by Inviron.

"I feel very honoured to have received this award."