VETERANS from across Southampton are being asked to attend the funeral of a former RAF air traffic controller - as only a few number of mourners are expected to attend.

Brian Frecknall, a former member of the Royal Air Force, passed away aged 92.

Born and raised in Sheffield, Brian moved to Chandler’s Ford in Hampshire as a young adult but has no family locally.

Worried that Brian would have only a small number of people at his funeral, staff at Bupa’s Knights Grove care home in North Baddesley, contacted the Southampton Veterans Centre to help give him the send-off he deserves.

Brian’s funeral will take place tomorrow at 11.30am at Southampton Crematorium on Bassett Green Road.

Born on February 17, 1929, Brian left school at 14-years-old to join the Royal Air Force, where he became an air traffic controller.

After leaving the forces, he worked as a railway controller.

Annie Tolici, Home Manager at Bupa Knights Grove care home, said: “While he might not have relatives locally, we all consider Brian part of our family.

"He lived with us for over four years and was such a lovely gentleman that we wanted to make sure he had a fitting farewell.

“Brian always spoke so fondly of his time in the RAF, and so we contacted the Southampton Veterans Centre to see if they’d ask any local veterans to attend.”

To celebrate Brian’s 90th birthday, veterans from the service went to Brian’s care home, where they shared stories of their time in the forces – much to Brian’s delight.

Colin Gaylor, from the Southampton Veterans Centre, added: “I first met Brian when we were invited to celebrate his 90th birthday at the home so, when I was asked to support him again I feel privileged to do so.

"We’re still looking for a bugle player so, if anyone is able to help, please do get in touch.”