A medal to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee has been unveiled.

The official emblem is being launched to mark the monarch's 60 years on the throne. It resembles a 10p piece and bears the dates 1952-2012.

The armed forces, emergency services and prison service personnel are among those who will receive one.

Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt said that, as the Queen had dedicated her life to public service, it was right to reward others who had done the same.

Living holders of the Victoria Cross and George Cross as well as members of the royal household will also be eligible for the award.

As are police community support officers who have completed five full calendar years of service.

The Diamond Jubilee celebrations will centre around a long weekend next year from 2 to 5 June.

Buckingham Palace will co-ordinate a programme of events on these dates including a Jubilee lunch, a pageant on the River Thames, a concert at the palace and the lighting of 2,012 beacons throughout the UK.

To read the complete article, see:Diamond Jubilee medal for public servants unveiled(www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13939458)