BATH and North East Somerset Council leader councillor Kevin Guy has paid tribute to a local war veteran who has passed away.

Councillor Guy said: “I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Stan Ford. On behalf of Bath & North East Somerset Council, I extend heartfelt condolences to Stan’s family, friends and all who knew him.

“Stan was an extraordinary member of our community. Only last year, I was proud to join him, his family and friends to celebrate his 100th birthday, marking not just a remarkable milestone in years, but a life defined by service, resilience and dedication to remembering those who did not return from war.

“Many residents will also remember Stan with great pride when he carried the Commonwealth Baton through the streets of Bath as part of the Queen’s Baton Relay, a moment that symbolised both his personal courage and his contribution to public life.

“Stan’s service to his country, and his commitment to sharing his experiences with future generations, will not be forgotten. He will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by our city and wider community. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.”

Stan served with the Royal Navy during the Second World War aboard HMS Fratton which was torpedoed off the coast of Normandy on August 18, 1944.

He suffered a fractured spine and injuries to both legs on the day his ship was sunk during the D-Day landings. Thirty-eight of the ship’s crew were rescued, however, 31 lost their lives.

A life-size banner of Stan was created as part of the Standing with Giants project to celebrate the national 80th anniversary of VE Day. The banner was displayed at Bath & North East Somerset Council’s The Guildhall as a visual tribute to Stan’s heroism.

A spokesperson for Standing with Giants said: “We will always remember Stan for his gentle and beautiful presence.

“When Stan agreed to take part in our lamp post banner project, we were over the moon. Dressed in his original-style Naval uniform and leaning from a lamppost, Stan’s banner stood proudly across Oxford city centre, capturing the spirit of his generation and serving as a powerful reminder to celebrate our freedom.

“Our thoughts are with Stan’s family and friends at this very sad time. Thank you for your service, Stan. Rest in peace.”

Stan became an ambassador for the British Normandy Memorial in 2022 and regularly returned to France to honour fallen soldiers by keeping their memory alive.

In a statement the Normandy Memorial Trust said it was deeply saddened to share the news that Stan Ford has passed away, aged 100.

They added: “We extend our sincere condolences to Stan's daughters Lorraine and Julie, and all his family and friends.

“We were so fortunate that he visited the Memorial multiple times, all thanks to the support of Spirit of Normandy Trust. He dedicated himself to keeping alive the memory of his fallen comrades and was a true friend of the Memorial. Stan, we will miss you.”