'Unforgettable character': Scottish WW2 veteran wounded on D-Day dies aged 103

· Forces News
The Scotsman celebrated his 103rd birthday with friends and family on 31 March in Kouklia, where he has lived for the last 30 years (Picture: SSAFA)

A Second World War veteran who was wounded while fighting on D-Day has died in Cyprus.

Harold Fenwick passed away peacefully in his sleep on 9 July aged 103.

The Scotsman was believed to be the last British Second World War veteran living in Cyprus.

The greatest generation 

Born on 31 March 1923, Harold, who was originally from Glasgow, served in the 9th Battalion Cameronians as a Platoon Commander.

As part of the 15th Scottish Infantry Division, he landed with thousands of others at Arromanches-les-Bain in Normandy, in 1944.

Surviving machine guns and booby traps, Harold was hit by a mortar round and was sent back to the UK, where he ended the war as a driver in Edinburgh.

His brother, Stanley, was killed at the age of 20 while serving in the Royal Air Force when his Halifax bomber was shot down.

In the years after he married and had children, working as a chartered surveyor.

Harold's wife, Sheila, died eight years ago after the pair spent their life living around the world and eventually retiring in Cyprus.

Despite his older age, Harold maintained an active life in the local village.

Harold Fenwick died peacefully in his sleep on 9 July, aged 103 (Picture: BFC)

Hero's funeral  

Harold was buried at Kouklia Cemetery next to his wife of 66 years, Sheila.

Attending his funeral were members of British Forces Cyprus, British High Commission and the United Nations who joined family and friends at the service.

A piper and bugler from 4th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland played at the service for their fellow countryman.

The Armed Forces charity SSAFA Cyprus said Harold was a much-loved member of the military community in Cyprus, and his life was one of "service, strength and kindness".

"His warmth, humour, resilience and unforgettable character touched everyone who had the privilege of meeting him," they said.

"He had an extraordinary ability to make people smile, and his stories, wit and friendship will remain with those fortunate enough to have known him."

A letter of condolence was delivered to Harold's family from Major General Tom Bewick, Commander of British Forces Cyprus.

Charities including SSAFA, Royal British Legion and the Army Benevolent Fund supported Harold as he reached old age.

His memory is kept alive by his three children, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.