A SECOND World War Lancaster pilot who spent his life in Southbourne after serving in the war has passed away aged 99.

Eric Clifton Harris was born in Redruth, Cornwall and emigrated to Christchurch in New Zealand aged five.

It was in New Zealand that Eric joined the Royal New Zealand Air Force as a pilot in 1942, and remained as part of the force until March 31 1946.

He was based in England and was an honoured member of the RAF 630 squadron based in East Kirby.

Eric also received his distinguished flying cross on September 21 1945.

Immediately after the end of the Second World War, Eric continued flying between India and England to bring home troops that had fought in the Burma and Indian campaign.

He remained in the UK Royal Air Force as Flight Lieutenant between June ‪30 1947 to March 22 1968.

In 1952 Eric was one of the pilots who escorted the then Princess Elizabeth from Kenya to English waters following the death of her father, the King.

After spending years flying around the world, Eric decided to move to Tuckton where he lived with his wife Camilla and his daughter Christine for the rest of his life.

He bought a hardware shop in Tuckton which he ran until he retired aged 63.

In his spare time, Eric enjoyed building model boats and planes and he also belonged to a ham radio association for many years.

His great-grandson Max Knight said: "Popa was one of a kind. His warmth and generosity could be felt by all who knew him. His passion for boats and aeroplanes was shared with his grandchildren as he made model boats for them to play with.

"He could turn his hand to anything, and you would often find him tinkering in his workshop to make something for his grandchildren. He was a bit of joker and on one occasion he barrel walked across his garden.

"Popa was generous with his time, wisdom and resources. He would always look to help others and his positivity was contagious.

"He was a hero to his country and also his family. We will all miss him so much, he had the most exciting life and was a real icon to us all.

"Popa will be remembered the most for his love and caring nature. His wisdom and wealth of knowledge was an inspiration to all those that knew him. He didn't have a bad bone in his body."

Eric passed away on May 17 2021.

He leaves behind his family, including two granddaughters and five great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held in Bournemouth on Wednesday, June 2.