A VETERAN and much-respected member of the Bude community has passed away, with tributes paid across his home town.

As a mark of respect, the council organised for the Union Flag at Shalder Hill to be flown at half-mast to mark the passing of distinguished seaman Godfrey Harrison BEM, who over the years served his town well.

A spokesperson for Bude-Stratton Town Council said: “We were saddened to hear of the passing of Godfrey Harrison BEM.

“A former Royal Navy seaman gunner, Godfrey was a much-respected member of our community and gave many years of service to both the Royal Naval Association and Royal British Legion locally. He also played an important role in Bude and Stratton’s Remembrance commemorations and the annual Poppy Appeal.

“His contribution to the community was recognised with the British Empire Medal in the 2024 New Year Honours.

“Our sincere condolences are with Godfrey’s family, friends, fellow veterans and all those who knew him.”

Born on the first actual day of spring in 1938, Godfrey went on to have a distinguished military career. He joined HMS Ganges in 1953 and then to Seaman Branch and concluded on HMS Corunna as L/Sea QRI, Seaman Gunner.

He later completed two spells at both HMS Excellent and HMS Cambridge and finished a spell of sea time on board HMS Charity (R29), Concord (D03), Saintes and Tiger (C20) prior to Corunna (D97).

Returning to shore, Godfrey became a highly respected and long-serving member of the Bude branch of the Royal British Legion. He held the post of chairman for many years and was seen as the driving force behind the town’s Poppy Appeal. He also initiated the formation of the Bude Royal Naval Association in 1989.

A Bude and Stratton Branch Royal British Legion said: “Sad news. Godfrey Harrison passed away during the night. Past chairman, 'secretary', president. What an amazing man he was. RIP my friend.”