AN award for public servants killed in the line of duty is recognition that "means so much", the West Yorkshire fathers of two murdered police officers have said after they successfully campaigned for the honour.

Bryn Hughes and Paul Bone called for medals to be awarded to emergency workers killed in the line of duty following the deaths of their daughters, PCs Nicola Hughes and Fiona Bone, who were murdered by Dale Cregan in Greater Manchester in 2012.

Today, it was announced the Elizabeth Emblem would be awarded to the next of kin of police officers, firefighters and other public servants.

The honour is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK armed forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.

Mr Hughes, 60, from Huddersfield, said it was something that had been "missed off the radar" previously.

He said: "It's been nearly three years campaigning for me and for it finally to be announced, I think in one respect it's humbling but overwhelming."

Mr Bone, 75, from Pool in Wharfedale, added: "I'm very pleased for all the police who have lost their lives in service that they're now getting recognition by the state, and for all the families involved it will be a privilege to get them."

Families are able to apply for the emblem via gov.uk, with nominations then reviewed by the George Cross Committee before recommendations are made to the King via the Prime Minister.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said: "We will not forget those who died in our service.

"The Elizabeth Emblem will bring the nation together to honour the dedication and commitment of these exceptional public servants who have given their lives in service of the United Kingdom."

The design of the emblem includes a rosemary wreath, a traditional symbol of remembrance, surrounding a Tudor Crown and the inscription For A Life Given In Service.

Mr Bone said it would be difficult to decide when to wear the emblem.

"It'll be nice to have and hold and occasionally it'll get worn," he said.

Mr Hughes added: "I think just by having it, just by knowing it's there, that means a great deal."

Ms Hughes, 23, and Ms Bone, 32, died in a gun and grenade attack while responding to a 999 call in Hattersley.

Policing minister Chris Philp said: "We owe so much to our public servants who make sacrifices every day to keep us safe."