The chairman of High Wycombe’s Royal British Legion has paid a heartfelt tribute to the town legend, who passed away last week, hailing him as a “truly special individual who embraced life, friendship and our town”.

Kevin Taylor has reflected on Monty Seymour’s tireless work for High Wycombe’s RBL and the 102 year-old was later named president of the branch in 1966, celebrating his golden anniversary just last year.

From the age of seven the Little Marlow School pupil sparked his “lifelong” dedication to the RBL by offering pony rides at an annual fair to fundraise for High Wycombe’s war memorial.

Mr Taylor said he is “deeply saddened” by Monty’s death and remembered the war hero as “selfless and enthusiastic” who saw “the future as an opportunity”.

Mr Taylor said: “Monty continued conscientiously, despite personal tragedy, to support the Branch and the wider community. 

“He was selfless and enthusiastic and was admired universally by all who had the honour and privilege to meet him.

“His vibrant discussions regarding his time with the RBL were enjoyed regularly by those whose lives he touched and he proved an inspiration particularly to the youth he come in contact with.”

In 1977 Monty was recognised for his dedication to the RBL and was made an Honorary Burgess of High Wycombe, continuing to “spread his knowledge and widened support of the RBL”.

Mr Taylor continued: “The Army Cadets in particular have found his unstinting commitment inspirational, with many of them supporting the RBL functions and the Poppy Appeal as a result.

“Every life he touched has a personal memory that is special to them, of a truly special individual who embraced life, friendship and our town. 

“I am deeply saddened at his passing.  I feel privileged not only to have known him and I am honoured to call him a personal friend.”