A WAR hero who was awarded France’s most prestigious honour for his efforts in the Second World War has died at the age of 97.

Harold Mellor, of Westminster Drive, Leigh, was given the Légion d’Honneur at Leigh Miners Welfare Institute in November 2016 for his bravery during the D-Day landings.

Harold joined the RAF as a flight mechanic aged 17 and was 23 when he prepared a landing strip five days after the battle on the Normandy beaches to help push the Nazis out of Europe.

His main roles were to repair and refuel planes, and hide supplies and fuel in enemy territory.

After receiving his Légion d’Honneur medal, Harold, known as "Frank" by his friends and family, praised the public for their support of his story after it was published.

He said: "I was proud and happy to hear from everyone, especially the younger people.

"It was heartwarming to realise how people viewed my story.

"It shows that you all have the same hopes and fears that we all had in 1944.

"And like us all, you all stand tall saying what you think about your values and roots.

"God bless you all and thank you for your kindness to me."

Harold also won an RAF Service Medal, the France and Germany Star, the 1939 to 1945 Star and an RAF Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.

After helping other countries, he returned home to his wife Ruby and they raised a family.

Harold went on to become a firefighter and salesman.

He was also a keen ballroom dancer for more than 30 years and his moves won him many qualifications in the discipline.

He went to the Apple Dance Centre on Twist Lane.

His daughter Felicity Poole added: "My dad had a very strong personality and people did not forget meeting him.

"He always had a joke to tell as well.

"My dad was always dressed smart and liked to wear a blazer and hat.

"He was also very independent, healthy and was still driving up until November."

Harold's funeral takes place at Howe Bridge Crematorium tomorrow morning, Thursday, at 10am with everyone welcome.

Royal British Legion members are expected to attend along with other military personnel.

There will be a reception at The Masons Arms pub in Atherton afterwards too.

Harold left a request for people to contact Sankey and Monks Funeral Directors on 01942 673171 to make a donation to the RAF Benevolent Fund rather than donating money or presenting flowers at the service.