Tributes to D-Day veteran who has died aged 101

Tributes are being paid to a "true legend" World War Two veteran from Merseyside who has died at the age of 101.

John Dennett from Wallasey, Wirral, who was a Royal Navy anti-aircraft gunner and took part in the D-Day landings, died in hospital on Sunday after a short illness, his family said.

He was one of 23 veterans who visited Normandy in June 2024 to mark the 80th anniversary of the largest military seaborne operation ever attempted, and he returned to France the following year, with eight other veterans.

Dennett's passion for football led to him founding Ashville FC, who said his legacy would "live on in our club forever".

Dennett served at every major Allied landing: North Africa, Italy, Normandy.

As a gunner on a landing ship, HMS LST 322, his vessel was vital for getting tanks and armour ashore.

He had signed up against his mother's wishes in 1942, and had been accepted without anyone seeing his birth certificate.

Ashville Football Club described him as "a true legend" and said his legacy would "live on in our club forever".

"His lifelong commitment, dedication, and passion for the club were second to none," a statement said.

The club said he had played an "enormous role" in shaping the club into what it was today, from the youth football to the senior team.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, we would like to express our deepest gratitude for everything he gave over so many years," it added.

"His presence, wisdom, and unwavering support will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

One man described Dennett on social media as "one of life's very few true, real heroes" who, at over 100 years old, was "sharp as a tack and a gentleman, always".

Another described him as "a wonderful man" who "always had time for people".

"A war hero and part of a generation we're sadly losing — people like John don't come around often. His legacy at Ashville will never be forgotten," another said.

The club said a minute's applause would be held on Saturday at 15:00 BST at the last game of the season.

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