WELL-wishers are rallying round to support a veteran Paratrooper whose treasured red beret was stolen on remembrance day.

Family and friends were left disgusted after Cyril Bayliss’ beloved military cap was taken from a table in a Bradford pub.

Now, a brand new beret is to be presented to Cyril at a special event in Shipley - being brought from Catterick Garrison by a serving member of the Paras.

The tribute has been organised by former soldier Ben Hainsworth who was shocked by the T&A report that Cyril’s beret was taken from the Ambassador pub after a remembrance service in the city.

He has got together serving and ex-soldiers to hand over the new beret to Cyril at the Travellers Rest pub in Shipley.

Cyril, who is 82, said he is ‘overwhelmed’ by the swell of support.

“This is brilliant,” he said.

His friend, Denise Mitchell, who initially flagged up the theft, said: “Cyril’s spirits have been lifted by all the support, showing that people care.

"He is a happy chappie again.”

When he saw the T&A article about Cyril, Ben Hainsworth took a screen shot and posted it on social media.

“Then I spoke to some guys from the Paras who said they would love to meet Cyril,” said the 35-year-old from Baildon who served in artillery corps.

“So myself and others decided to meet up and give him the new beret.

“I tried to get into the Paras myself so I know how hard it is and that is why it has affected me so much.

"You wear something like that beret with pride."

Those at the presentation will include a member of the Yorkshire regiment and a former Para.

Also, serving Paratrooper Jamie Lambie, also from Baildon, who will don dress uniform and medals to bring the beret from Catterick.

“I was disgusted by what happened to Cyril. I really was,” said Ben, now an asbestos site supervisor. “I know how tough it is to get one of those berets.

"I asked Jamie if we could get another and he said ‘no problem’.

"Lots of people have been in touch about this and I thank all who have come forward with support.

“If this had happened to me, I would have wanted the same level of caring.”

Denise said said despite everyone’s best efforts, Cyril has had no luck in getting back his original beret, which he had had for more than 30 years.

Cyril, who lives in Shipley, said: “I have drawn a blank on getting my cap back, but a huge thank-you to everyone who has responded on this.”

l The presentation of the beret is at 5pm on Sunday, December 1 in the Travellers Rest.