The flag outside the Maryport Navy Club flew at half mast this week to mark the passing of a former Marine and the chairman of the local branch of the Royal Naval Association for over 40 years.

Brian Mossom, 82, served in the Royal Marines for nine years, becoming a corporal.

In Maryport, however, he was best known as the man who ran the Poppy Appeal for 14 years, receiving an award for raising more than £70,000.

Remembrance Day was special to him. As well as carrying the Navy standard in the main town parade, he would also conduct a service on the quayside earlier in the day to remember those who had died at sea.

After retirement from his many years at Pentagon Chemicals, he joined the voluntary Ambulance Service,travelling many miles driving people to and from hospital and other medical appointments.

As well as that, he did the Workington to Keswick walk three times in a row.

To his family, Mr Mossom was a loving husband to Maureen for 61 years, loved dad to Stuart, and a proud grandfather and an uncle, cousin and friend.

Known by the wider community for his voluntary work, his family have their own memories.

Stuart, who worked alongside him at Pentagon, said : “He was always there for you. I knew I could always go to my dad when I wanted advice or help. He was a role model and an inspiring father to look up to."

He had a huge love for his four grandchildren and although he treated them equally, each had different memories of the time they spent with him and his ability to join in with their particular needs and wants.

Mr Mossom fought a long battle with Vascular Dementia – a battle granddaughter Hannah said he never should have had to fight. Hannah, who is going to train as a nurse, cared for him during his illness.

Tributes to Mr Mossom have poured into social media sites such as Maryport Past and Present where he is remembered as ‘a true gentleman’, and ‘a lovely man. Would help anyone'.

Another said “So sad to hear the news about Brian. Brian was one of the first people I got to know when I started work at Pentagon Chemicals back in 2002. He was responsible for taking me through the induction into the company. Smashing guy and a real pleasure to know."

And on Facebook: “Time to stand down Brian.Your duty is done."

A service was held for Mr Mossom on Monday. The family have thanked people for their tributes and those who stood by the Navy Club flag as the cortege drove past “as Brian took his last farewell.”

His final tribute came from his family: “His watch is now done and he’s at peace. Everyone will be forever grateful and miss him dearly.”