TRIBUTES have been paid to an "inspirational" fundraiser and devoted Royal British Legion champion following his death.

Brian Edward Allen, of Clacton, died on July 19 at the age of 88.

He was a standard bearer for the Royal British Legion for many years and served with the Royal Artillery. 

He was always an active member of the community and "always had time" to support those in need.

Gazette: Service - Brian Allen in uniformService - Brian Allen in uniform (Image: Gary Allen)

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Brian, who also spent more than 70 years as a member of the Clacton's Comrades Club, even participated in more than 50 marathons, raising countless money for charities. 

For some time, Brian was also a printer and created the very first copies of the coloured Evening Gazette. 

Gazette: Runner - Brian Allen finished around 55 marathons and donated thousands of pounds to charities Runner - Brian Allen finished around 55 marathons and donated thousands of pounds to charities (Image: Gary Allen)

Mr Allen leaves behind his wife, Sylvia, two sons, Terry, and Gary, five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

His son, Terry Allen said: "He was an inspiration. I was lucky to have worked with my dad for 13 years as a printer.

"He was a fun person to be around and when I was younger he supported me throughout everything.

"He used to take me to football and at some point he used to be a chairman of a football club. 

"As an avid runner, he used to run to football games I had, whether they were in Colchester or Halstead, and after matches we used to wind him up that he had to run back home too.

"Everyone I speak to remembers him in a good light and comments on how much of an inspiration he was - he always used to have time for people and help them out."

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Brian's funeral service is to be held on August 10 at St John's Church in Clacton at 12.30pm followed by a private burial. 

Per Brian's request, the family welcomes attendees to wear something blue or white and avoid yellow. 

Donations in Brian's memory can be made to St Helena's Hospice by visiting brian-edward-allen.muchloved.com.