HUNDREDS of people paid their final respects at the poignant funeral of a D-Day veteran.

John 'Jack' Bellis, of Bryn Hedd in Southsea, believed to be Wrexham's oldest war veteran, died on August 5, aged 102.

Mourners included family, friends and veterans from Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and Royal Welch Fusiliers, who proudly carried the military standards as a mark of respect to a very popular character.

At the service held at Pentrebychan Crematorium on Wednesday, Reverend Phil Carey read out a tribute from Mr Bellis's family.

He said: "Old age is wonderful if you can enjoy it and Jack never thought he was old.

"He was a hero in our community and we owe him a debt of gratitude we can never repay."

Mr Bellis was a Bren gun carrier driver/mechanic during D-Day and was with the Royal Welch Fusiliers, but fought alongside the King's Shropshire Light Infantry during the landings.

He never hid from his past and was proud of his achievements.

He was described as a keen gardener, bird-watcher and traveller, always living his life to the full.

Revered Carey added: "He was a keen photographer and loved nothing more than showing people his photographs.

The Leader:

"He would produce them from his inside pocket.

"He loved his trips going back to Normandy, paying his respects to those who died and never came home."

Mr Bellis' love of photography will see his photograph, taken by Glyndwr University Student Rebecca Jones, in the 2019 British Army Calender.

In a tribute read by Reverend Carey, Ms Jones said: "Jack is one incredible man who loved to tell his story to those who wanted to listen.

"I have learnt so much that will stay with me forever.

"When I showcased the photography to Jack, he wished me luck in my competition and said that he was going to be famous.

"That’s his cheeky, fun character which he never lost!"

Hymns included 'O God, our help in ages past' and 'Guide me, O though great Redeemer'.

During a time of remembrance mourners stood as The Last Post was played by David Thomas from the Salvation Army Band.

The Ode of Remembrance was spoken by fellow veterans as the service came to an end.

Mr Bellis will join his wife Gladys, who died in 2013, and two of his children, John and Kath.

He leaves behind three children, Alan, Roy and Sandra, and his grandchildren.