AN RAF war hero from Skipton who has died at the grand age of 103 will be given a ceremonial military send off on Friday.

Len Parry, who died peacefully at Airedale Hospital on June 8,was unique in being awarded both the Burma Star and the Pacific Star medals. He served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, was one of the last remaining VJ veterans, and escaped from captivity by the Japanese.

Originally from Burnley, Len left school at 14 to work as an apprentice gas fitter. At the onset of the Second World War he was originally assigned to the Royal Engineers in 1940, but his persistence saw him accepted for training as RAF ground crew.

Hundreds are expected at his funeral service on Friday morning at Skipton Crematorium which will also be attended by military personnel from RAF Leeming and members of the Skipton branch of the Royal British Legion, whose chairman, George Martin, will deliver the eulogy.

Len's coffin will be dressed with the Union Flag and on it will be placed the Royal Airforce ensign which will be folded and presented to his family following the service. Also on his coffin will be placed a ceremonial hat and Len's medals.

Three standard bearers will lead the coffin from the entrance of the crematorium, including Sam Henderson, from Skipton RBL and two from RAF Leeming; and the route will be lined with representatives from Skipton RBL and RAF Leeming. The service itself will be taken by military chaplain, the Rev Ian Greenhalgh, who lives in Giggleswick.

Len, who only gave up driving when he was 99 years old, was a long-standing member of the Craven Old Wheels Society and at one time was the proud owner of a white version of Bergerac's red Triumph Roadster. Members of the society helped him celebrate his 102nd birthday, and it is thought will also be at Friday's send-off.

Len, who had moved from Skipton to a care home in Silsden, leaves behind three children, Nigel, Rosamund and Nicholas, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The service will take place on Friday (June 21) at 10.50am; those who wish to pay their respects are asked to gather at 10.30am; the family has said the wearing of black is not essential, and that people are welcome to wear bright colours in celebration of 103 years.

Donations may be given at the service for the Service Assistance Fund, British Legion Skipton Branch or care of Brook Smith’s, Bunkers Hill, Skipton.