Around 30 men conscripted to work in Britain's coal mines during the Second World War were today presented with commemorative badges for their service.

The "Bevin Boys" attended a ceremony at the Scottish Mining Museum in Newtongrange, Midlothian, held in recognition of their efforts during the war.

They received the honour from Ochil and South Perthshire Labour MP Gordon Banks, who had campaigned for the men's services to be acknowledged.

Today's event was to honour Scottish men who contributed to the UK war effort.

Mr Banks said: "This honour has been a long time coming. It is thoroughly deserved."

In March, Prime Minister Gordon Brown presented 25 "Boys" with badges at Downing Street.

More than 48,000 men helped ease the country's coal shortage during the Second World War.

They were named after the wartime minister, Ernest Bevin.

Famous Bevin Boys include Sir Jimmy Saville and the late Eric Morecambe.

The badges feature a pithead design and profile of a miner.