A SECOND World War veteran and former steel worker has died at the age of 98.

An appeal has been made for mourners to attend the funeral of Maurice Winspear, who was also a passionate supporter of Middlesbrough FC.

With no known family, celebrant Sue Dicken, from east Cleveland, made a plea for mourners to attend his funeral at Kirkleatham Cemetery.

Mr Winspear was originally from Whitby and served in the Royal Scots Fusiliers, spending four years on the front line in Italy in the Second World War.

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He also served in Syria, Palestine and Egypt and after returning to Teesside worked as a fitter at the United Bus Company before spending the remainder of his career at British Steel.

Describing him as “very private, quiet, and humble”, Sue said: ”I was thinking how sad it is that there might not be anyone to send him off.

“It’s heart-breaking.

“He was a really understated and unassuming gentleman. I just think it would be tragic if his last goodbye is just me.”

After losing his sight in recent years, his favourite thing was to listen to Boro matches on the radio. He also held dear his campaign medals from his time in service.

After finding out about Mr Winspear, Sue has been trying to find out more about his life and his shared his story on social media in a bid to make sure his funeral is not unattended.

She has contacted the Royal British Legion, which will be attending the funeral with its standard.

She added: “I’m not very social media savvy but everyone has been really supportive so I’m hoping that they do actually come.

“If anyone can come and pay their respects to a gentleman who sacrificed so much and didn’t talk about it or wear it as a badge.”

Mr Winspear’s funeral takes place on Tuesday, May 31 at 2pm at Kirkleatham

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