HIS coffin draped in a union flag and his black bowler hat stood proudly on top, one of Worcester's best-known soldiers made his final journey yesterday.

Mourners packed the parish church of St John-In-Bedwardine, in St John's to pay their respects to Major Tom Eric Averill, of Hanbury Park, known affectionately as Major Tom, who died aged 90 at the beginning of the month.

The Reverend Canon Dr Michael Nott held the service and gave thanks for Major Tom's life, a stalwart of the Dunkirk Veterans Association and former Worcester Rugby Club player.

"For many people the military side of his life and experience is probably foremost in our minds. For a very significant part, and for most of his 30s, he was a farmer," said Dr Nott.

We Plough the Fields and Scatter was sung to signify this part of his life. The service ended with The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, is Ended.

A moving reading of Psalm 23 was read by Major Tom's daughter Julia and a recitation was given by son Michael, who said: "My father had a long life and had many friends. He would be pleased to see so many of you here."

Major Tom was born in Canada in 1917. He farmed at Holt Heath, near Worcester, and later worked in the seeds business. He fought with the 67th (Worcestershire) Field Regiment of the Royal Artillery in the Second World War.