D-Day hero is given military style funeral by veterans

A D-Day hero from Somerset has been given a military-style funeral after a rallying call was made by his friends for fellow veterans to attend.

Bert Williams served in the Army during World War Two and died on 29 October at his home in Chilcompton.

His extensive family were joined by Royal British Legion standard bearers and fellow war veterans.

His closest friend, Joe Vango, said: "It was a marvellous send off for Bert, he deserved every second of it."

'National appeal'

Mr Vango said: "I loved that man. We had become very good friends and Bert always used to say, 'that's my brother'.

"I shall miss him deeply, as I'm sure the others will too."

The appeal was made last week by Peter Yeates, who organises an annual memorial service at Paulton, after being asked by Mr Vango for help.

Royal British Legion riders branch member from Wiltshire, Alan McIlvar, turned out with his fellow veterans.

Mr McIlvar said: "There was a national call out and we said we would turn up.

"We didn't know him personally - but he's a veteran and we all are.

"He did his bit and we support that. What he did in the D-Day landings should never be forgotten."

Bert Williams joined the Army in 1938 as a regular soldier

Born in Radstock, Mr Williams joined the Army in 1938 as a regular soldier.

In the run up to the D-Day landings he helped to transport convoys of soldiers on to boats heading for France.

He then joined troops on Sword Beach, landing on 6 June 1944. He worked as a despatch rider delivering morphine and bandages to first aid posts, as well as messages to his regiment.

The funeral took place on 12 November at Bath Crematorium.

The military send-off was organised by Peter Yeates