The Royal British Legion has announced the national winners of the inaugural Friends of the Forces Awards.

At a Gala Evening, attended by Prince Harry and hosted by historian and broadcaster Dan Snow, on Tuesday 13 July 2010, awards in four categories and two President's special awards were presented.

Winners were chosen from 450 nominations nationwide by a panel of independent judges, chaired by the Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup. The awards recognise those from all walks of life across the UK who have made an exceptional contribution to the well-being and appreciation of HM Armed Forces and their families.

BFBS Radio and BBC Radio 1 joined forces on Bank Holiday Monday 31 May 2010 for a live link up with listeners in the UK and Service personnel across the globe.

Live segments were broadcast on BBC Radio 1 between 9am and 7pm, with BBC Radio 1 presenters Dev, Fearne Cotton, Greg James and Scott Mills. BFBS presenters Richard Hatch and Jessie Aru anchored the content from the Afghanistan-based station.

Soldiers based abroad had the opportunity to request songs and broadcast messages to friends and family back home.

Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup presented the special President's Award to BBC Radio 1 presenter Fearne Cotton and Richard Hatch of Forces broadcaster BFBS Radio.

See the video of 'The Forces Takeover' below ...