TRIBUTES have been paid to a stalwart of the Royal British Legion Dawlish branch.

The death was announced of Tom Elliott, MBE, former president of the Dawlish branch.

The retired Royal Navy lieutenant commander will have a guard of honour at his funeral which takes place on Friday December 27 at 2pm at St Gregory’s Church, Dawlish.

A spokesman for the RBL Dawlish branch described Mr Elliott as a ‘stalwart supporter of all the legion does in Dawlish and a very highly respected member of our community’.

Mr Elliott was a well-known face at Armed Forces events including Remembrance Day, Armed Forces Day and Merchant Navy Day.

He was easily recognised in his naval uniform and sword.

He was the longest serving president of the RBL Dawlish Branch, holding the position for 17 years from 2004 to 2021.

Former Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Lisa Mayne said: ‘Such a lovely man.’

Another former Mayor Howard Almond said: ‘Very sad, may he rest in peace.’

A RBL member said: ‘RIP Tom. You were a credit to everything you ever done.’

Mr Elliott followed in his father’s footsteps and often wore his medals at events.

Thomas Ferguson Elliott served in the merchant Navy during the Second World War and survived three sinkings.

As well as his duties at annual events, Mr Elliott paraded the Standard to pay respects on the death of Queen Elizabeth II at the two minutes silence during her State Funeral.

Any veterans who would like to join in the guard of honour at his funeral are invited to take part.

Anyone wanting to do so is asked to contact secretary of the RNL Dawlish branch John O’Donoghue on [email protected]