VETERANS and well-wishers are expected to gather today to bid farewell to a 98-year-old man who served in the Second World War.

The funeral of Maurice Winspear is set to take place today at Kirkleatham Crematorium.

The 98-year-old Second World War veteran, who was living at a care home in Nunthorpe, died on May 13.

An appeal was made last week for mourners to attend his funeral after it emerged Mr Winspear had no surviving family or friends.

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Mr Winspear was originally from Whitby and served in the Royal Scots Fusiliers, spending four years on the front line in Italy in the Second World War.

He also served in Syria, Palestine and Egypt and after returning to Teesside worked as a fitter at the United Bus Company before spending the remainder of his career at British Steel.

The appeal for mourners was made by east Cleveland funeral celebrant Sue Dicken, who has been trying to spread the word via social media to ensure he has a good send off.

She told the Echo: “I was thinking how sad it is that there might not be anyone to send him off.

“It’s heart-breaking.

“He was a really understated and unassuming gentleman. I just think it would be tragic if his last goodbye is just me.”

After losing his sight in recent years, his favourite thing was to listen to Boro matches on the radio. He also held dear his campaign medals from his time in service.

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After finding out about Mr Winspear, Sue has been trying to find out more about his life and his shared his story on social media in a bid to make sure his funeral is not unattended.

Her post was shared dozens of times, with many people saying they intended to turn out to pay their respects.

The funeral takes place today at Kirkleatham Crematorium, at 2pm.

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