FAMILY and ex-comrades have paid tribute to a Second World War hero from Farnworth who has died aged 83.

Alec Mort, who was a sergeant major with the Commandos, fought in a number of key campaigns in Europe, including the famous raid on St Nazaire in France in 1942, seen as a turning point in the war.

Alec was involved in the daring attack on the German naval base, which saw the Allies ram a destroyer packed full of explosives into the dock gates and blow it up. This prevented large German battleships from using the port.

He also saw action in Norway, Italy, Crete and Greece during his distinguished military career with No 2 Commando.

His son, Eddie, said that his father was a brave but very modest man.

"My dad told me very little of his life as a commando," he said. "I have been told by his friends and comrades that he was a very brave man indeed. He was a great morale booster and much respected and admired by other members of No 2 Commando."

Colonel Thomas Sherman, aged 83, who served with Alec during the St Nazaire raid, said: "I remember Alec as being a very bright and sharp young man. He was well liked among the men and was a good all-round soldier. I'm really sorry to hear that he's passed away."

Eric Buckmaster, who saw action with Alec in Italy, said: "He was a nice and solid man, well liked and respected by his troops."

In 1979, Alec and other St Nazaire veterans were asked by the Duke of Edinburgh to join him on the Royal Yacht Britannia in Southampton. They sailed to St Nazaire to receive medals and a great reception from local people.

Alec, who lived in Bolton all his life, had been suffering from Alzheimer's disease in his later years. He died peacefully at the Royal Bolton Hospital on December 19. Mr Mort leaves a son and two grandchildren.