Special service to remember Sussex hero who was Britain's oldest surviving World War 2 veteran

Harry was a Royal Navy ship’s gunner. He enlisted in the military at 16, rising through the ranks from able seaman to sub-lieutenant and served in the Navy from the very first day of the Second World War until its last on May 8, 1945.

He worked on six different ships but most of his time was spent on the Hunt-class destroyer HMS Mendip, a ship he loved.

He survived the sinking of two of the vessels when they were torpedoed. He was hurled into the sea on both occasions. His ship, HMS Wakeful, was struck by a torpedo launched from a German E-boat on May 29, 1940, while trying to evacuate soldiers from Dunkirk beach and was split into two parts.

After the war, Harry studied for a degree in marine physics and was discharged from the Navy as a lieutenant. He later became a teacher before being positioned with the RAF educational wing.

When he retired, he was a squadron leader. Harry later taught at Archbishop Tennyson's School at the Oval in London and was Principal of the Streatham and Tooting Institute.

Harry moved to Bexhill with his wife Colette in the 1980s. They became staunch supporters and members of many local groups and pillars of St Peter's Church in the Old Town.

A service to give thanks for Harry’s life took place at St Peter’s Church.

The service was conducted with full military honours, including a Royal Marine bugler, naval personnel serving as pallbearers, and a guard of honour. Representatives from the Royal British Legion were also in attendance.

The church was filled with members, friends, veterans, community representatives, and dignitaries in a moving and dignified ceremony that celebrated a life well lived.

Mr Waddingham and his late wife, Colette, shared a long-standing connection with St Peter’s Church, where they were founder members of the Friends of St Peter’s. Their ongoing support and generosity were recognised through the award of Honorary Membership for Life.

Cllr Abul Azad, vice chairman of East Sussex County Council, said: "It was a true honour to the Service of Thanksgiving and to pay tribute to Harry Waddingham. His life was an inspiration—marked by service, resilience, and a deep sense of community.

"He was not only respected for his service but deeply loved for his character and humility. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. On behalf of East Sussex County Council I extend my

sincere condolences to Mr Waddingham’s family and loved ones. Harry Waddingham’s life will be remembered with honour, dignity, and gratitude.”