MEMBERS of Stourport Royal British Legion have paid tribute to their well-respected former president who died last week, aged 76.

John Cullen, who held the position for seven years, died on September 19 at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

His funeral service was due to take place today at Kidderminster's St John's Church at 11am.

Two standard bearers from the Kidderminster and Stourport British Legion branches will accompany the coffin into the church and a bugler from the organisation will play Last Post at the cremation service in Stourbridge.

Mr Cullen, who was a diabetic, was married to his wife, Kate, for 51 years and had two daughters, Anne and Lindy.

He was involved with many organisations, including The Old Pals Association, and was a founder of the Wyre Forest Legion Trust.

The former RAF serviceman was instrumental in setting up a Legion Trust scheme that bought a caravan in Burnham-on-Sea.

Stourport Royal British Legion member, John Bevan, said Mr Cullen would be "greatly missed".

He added: "John was a genuinely nice person who everyone respected because of his opinions and hard work."

Mr Cullen's daughter, Lindy, said: "My father was always proud to serve as Stourport's Royal British Legion president. It was something that he took very seriously."

Mr Cullen's family have asked people to make donations to the Diabetic Research and Well Being Foundation. They can be made by contacting Bewdley's Ince funeral directors on 01299 403105.