TRIBUTES poured in following the death of the North-East's most celebrated war hero.

Surviving members of the Durham Light Infantry and civic leaders spoke of their affection and respect for Capt Richard Annand - the last surviving member of the DLI to hold the Victoria Cross.

Capt Annand, the first serving soldier to receive the nation's highest award for bravery during the Second World War, died in the University Hospital of North Durham on Christmas Eve.

Only six weeks ago, his former comrades from the DLI Association gathered outside the home he shared with his wife Shirley in Whitesmocks, Durham City, to mark his 90th birthday with a parade of bugles and drums.

Sir Paul Nicholson, Lord Lieutenant for the county, led the tributes to the man who was Durham's longest serving deputy lieutenant.

He said: "Captain Annand was one of the most respected VCs.

"He and his wife Shirley together made a great contribution to Durham for more than 60 years. He will be much missed."

Originally from South Tyneside, Capt Richard Wallace Annand earned his VC at the age of 25, while serving as a Second Lieutenant in the Second Battalion of the DLI.

On May 16, 1940, his platoon engaged a German unit on a bridge over the River Dyle, near Brussels.

When his men ran out of ammunition, he advanced over open ground under heavy fire and drove the enemy back with grenades.

After having his wounds dressed he resumed command of his men and continued the attack.

When his platoon finally withdrew, his batman was missing so he returned behind enemy lines and brought the injured man back in a wheelbarrow.

Family and friends are welcome to attend the funeral service, which takes place at St Cuthbert's Church, in North Road, Durham, on Wednesday, at 1.45pm.

It is followed by cremation for family members only at Durham Crematorium, in South Road, after which everyone is welcome at a reception/funeral tea at the DLI Museum, at 3pm.

People attending are asked to park in the car park at the DLI Museum and Durham Art Gallery, on the opposite side of Framwelgate Peth.

A memorial service, of thanksgiving for Capt Annand's life will be held at Durham Cathedral, on Monday, February 7. The time is yet to be confirmed.