AN EX-serviceman and community stalwart has died aged 72.

Colin Lippett died suddenly at home in Credenhill on August 24 from an aortic aneurysm.

He was born in Tongywnlais, Cardiff in 1942 and came to Hereford in May 1959, when he was 15 and joined the RAF as a boy entrant.

He served 30 years in the RAF, serving tours in Cyprus, Bahrain and Germany, and was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) as recognition of his exemplary service.

He came back to Hereford in 1983 and settled in Credenhill, serving 17 years as a civil servant.

Mr Lippett was Credenhill parish clerk for three years under the chairmanship of Andrew Round, who is now a Herefordshire Councillor for the Holmer ward.

He was the competition secretary of Burghill Valley Golf Club, where he also became a trustee of the golf club and helped run the junior section for three years.

He was a long-time season ticket holder at the newly renamed Hereford FC and stuck with the club through good times and bad

His daughter Joanne Jones said: "He was very proud of his involvement in Marches cricket league 2012, 2013 and 2014 champions, Garnons CC, where he was integral to the running of the club.

"He was the ground coordinator, not only taking great pleasure in keeping the outfield looking pristine, but also taking the lead on the upkeep of the pavilion and facilities. "For the last two years he also served as the club treasurer and sat on the club committee."

At the last league game the team held a minute's silence on the square and club chairman, Philip Brace, said the passing of Mr Lippett was like the loss of a family member to the club.

Mr Lippett leaves behind his wife, Gill; two children, Craig and Joanne; three grandchildren, Aaron, Darcey and Harry; and four step-grandchildren, Kris, Sam, Ashley and Phoebe.

Mr Lippett's funeral will be held at Hereford Crematorium on Tuesday, September 8 at 10.30am.