Mr Cattermole died suddenly a fortnight previously near to his home, at Heckfield Green, Hoxne. He was a much loved, modest unassuming man, highly respected who would help anyone.

A moving personal tribute was paid to him by a life-long friend, David Layte.

Mr Layte described their early Royal Navy training at HMS Ganges, Shotley and went on to outline Mr Cattermole’s outstanding 25 years in the Navy.

In the last ten years Mr Cattermole had performed fantastic work in helping preserve and improve the Navy Museum at HMS Ganges.

In 1980 Mr Cattermole moved into the newsagents business and with his wife of 45 years, Greta ran shops in Thetford, Eye and Ipswich.

The service was conducted by the Rev John Waller, (Royal Navy chaplain) who said Mr Cattermole was a pillar of the community in Hoxne, where he worked on the playing field.

Daphne Banham was the organist.

Committal took place in Hoxne churchyard.