Centenarian Ronald Underwood,  of Richard Avenue, Brightlingsea, died at home on January 9.

His daughter Val and son Alan were with him and were assisted by wonderful carers and support from St Helena’s Hospice, to whom they are extremely grateful.

Ron enjoyed his 100th birthday in May 2025 and as he had been celebrating half years too, he celebrated his 100 and a half birthday in November with his family. Ron’s father, Victor, lived into his 90s and his grandmother and great-grandmother both lived until they were 99 so he was delighted to outdo them!

Ron was known to many people in Brightlingsea, particularly for his voluntary work at the museum in his retirement years, where he enjoyed talking to visitors and imparting his considerable local knowledge and history. Luckily he has written a lot down.

Ron was one of the last surviving airmen to have flown in Swordfish aircraft during WWII, having joined the Royal Navy at the age of 17. He joined Essex Police in 1947 and became a sergeant. One of his famous stories was about the time he arrested a suspect after pursuing him on his bicycle.

Following his cremation at Weeley Crematorium on Thursday, February 12 at 11am, there will be a celebration of his life at the Methodist Church in Chapel Road at 12.15. Donations may be made to St Helena Hospice.