A MEMORIAL service is to be held this weekend in honour of a former North-East army recruiter who created what became known as ‘Pad’s Army’.

Staff Sergeant Paddy Fox, who died last month aged 82, enlisted 2,000 people during his years in the East Durham district and earned a British Empire Medal from the Queen for his work.

Maureen Taylor-Gooby, who was mayor of Peterlee when he left to become a Chelsea Pensioner in 2001, has organised a memorial for him this Saturday at St Cuthbert’s Church.

She said: “Paddy will always be remembered with affection in this area.

“Many people owe a debt of gratitude to him for the help he gave them in organising their lives and careers.

“Above all he was such a courteous man. We are all very sad to hear of his death, and I am pleased a memorial service is to be held. He was a faithful member of St Cuthbert’s Church.”

Paddy retired from the Army after 38 years, at the age of 55, with the rank of staff sergeant, and went on to work as an usher at Peterlee’s Magistrates Court for 12 years.

He was also involved with St Cuthbert’s Church during his time in Peterlee, serving as church warden and verger, but ill health finally prompted him to become a Chelsea Pensioner.

Paddy’s funeral was held with full military honours at Chelsea Hospital on January 28.

His memorial at St Cuthbert’s Church, Peterlee, will be held at 11am on Saturday. It will be conducted by Canon Keith Woodhouse, assisted by councillors and the British Legion. All welcome.