AIR CADETS in the Wee County are today paying tribute to a man who defined squadron life in Alloa for the past five decades.

Tributes are being paid to John Wynne with the 383 Alloa Air Cadet Squadron set to form a guard of honour at his funeral today, Wednesday September 14.

Mr Wynne, who passed away peacefully at Parklands Care Home at the age of 84 on August 24, is being remembered fondly by many who had passed through the doors of the squadron over the decades.

Paying tribute to an “absolutely lovely gentleman”, former cadet and later squadron commander Craig Hutchinson said: “The town of Alloa has had many great citizens over the centuries and Mr John Wynne was one of those.

“I doubt that he would agree with this assessment, make a cheeky remark at his expense and have us all laughing, such was the measure of the man.

“However, I know I speak for hundreds of former cadets when I say he leaves a substantial legacy and shaped the lives of those young people who knew him.”

Mr Wynne established 383 (Alloa) Squadron, Air Training Corps, in the late 1970s and was promoted to squadron commander.

It was rare he would miss one of the twice weekly parade nights and showed a selfless commitment to the young people who joined.

Mr Hutchinson recalled: “He listened and laughed in equal measure and intrinsically knew how to deal with those of us who were going through the ‘daft teenager’ phase, putting us on the right path.

“We trusted and respected John, who was the important role model that all young people benefit from.

“When he retired as squadron commander in 1993, John continued to support and advise in his role as a civilian instructor and in tribute to his service, the cadet hall in Whins Road was renamed in his honour and he received a nomination for the Clackmannanshire Citizen of the Year Awards.

“In all, he must have given some 50 years of service.”

Indeed, it was only right the hall would be named after Mr Wynne, who was “in with the bricks”.

Mr Hutchinson added: “He was a part of that building, he has given a massive part of his life, over 50 years, to the squadron, just helping young people."

A loving husband to late wife Sandra and dad to the late Sheila, Shirley, Julie, Joanne and partners John and Glen, as well as grandad to Louise and Shaun and wife Zara – he will be missed by many.

The funeral service will take place today at Alloa Ludgate PC from 12.30pm, thereafter to Sunnyside Cemetery – family flowers only.

Donations to Strathcarron Hospice and CHAS welcome.