MEMBERS of the Armed Forces lined the streets of Mullion today (Tuesday) to pay their respects to one of the last surviving Paratroopers from WWII.

The funeral of Herbert ‘Herbie’ Samuel Bray began with a procession through the village before a service at Mullion Parish Church.

The procession was led by a lone bagpiper and many members of the Armed Forces and Veterans who were to join the procession by Herbie’s family last month.  

Falmouth Packet: Sailors from RNAS Culdrose also paid their respects to Herbie today Sailors from RNAS Culdrose also paid their respects to Herbie today (Image: Colin Higgs) Herbie was born in Mullion in 1926 and joined the war in 1944 at the age of 18. He served at the Rhine Crossing and then in Palestine as a Paratrooper. His brother also served in the war for the airborne forces but sadly died on the battlefield.

Following his war service, Herbie returned to his hometown of Mullion where he lived for 94 years before moving into the care home in Hayle.

Falmouth Packet: Herbie was described as a 'true hero' by his familyHerbie was described as a 'true hero' by his family (Image: Family picture)The former builder and Mullion Football Club Captain was a father to Angela, grandfather to Jordan and Ben and great-grandfather of Florence and Herbie – named after his great-grandfather.

Falmouth Packet: Herbie's coffin arrives at Mullion Parish Church Herbie's coffin arrives at Mullion Parish Church (Image: Colin Higgs)Jordan Jane, Herbie’s Grandson told the Packet: “Herbie was a true hero to both me and my brother Ben.

“He was also a fantastic great-grandfather to my kids, and I know a great dad to my mum.

“He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all.”

Herbie's great-niece, Kylie Orcheston also paid tribute to her 'Uncle Herb'. She said: "He was a modest, kind and family-orientated man and he will be missed dearly.”