TRIBUTES have been paid to a war hero and much-loved community stalwart from Redditch who has died, aged 91.

Lt Con Brian Turner, a recipient of the Military Cross for bravery, was a regular face at the town's annual Remembrance and Armistice day parades.

He died on September 17 at the town's Alexandra hospital.

During the Second World War Brian served in the Royal Engineers.

Toward the end of the war he was posted to Poland with a group of seven men.

However, after he landed the operation was cancelled stranding Brian and his men with no hope of being picked up.

With no way of getting home Brian made the decision to simply walk home - so he marched all of the man back to England, via Portugal.

Upon his triumphant and miraculous return, with all seven men, he was awarded the Military Cross, handed out for an act or acts of exemplary gallantry.

Paying tribute to Brian, wife Jean Margaret described him as quiet, kind, and generous.

"He also had a peculiar sense of humour," she said.

"He often had to explain himself when making jokes but once he did, you understand what he meant and what he was saying was funny.

"We were married for 57 wonderful years. We were never apart from each other after getting married, we were always together.

"It's amazing where the time goes."

The couple, who moved to Redditch 45 years ago, have two sons Peter and Ian, who both serve in the Armed Forces, and two grandchildren.

Originally from Staffordshire, Brian, who lived in Matchborough, was affectionately known to many as captain Turner.

Councillor Juliet Brunner described him as a diligent member of the community and one of the last of "the old boys".

Cllr Brunner said that he would always attend the Remembrance Day parades and would always seek her out to make sure her Grandfather's medals were polished and passed muster.

"I'm deeply saddened by Capt Turner's passing," she said.

"He was quite a character, it won't be the same without his weekly report. I shall miss him terribly."

Brain's funeral will take place on October 5 at Redditch Crematorium at 3.30pm.

People are welcome to come and pay their respects but his family have asked for no flowers, instead urging people to donate to The League of Friends at the Alexandra Hospital.