Tributes paid to 'true gent' Major Charles Wilson

Follows death of Island's Royal British Legion President

Tributes are being paid to the president of the Isle of Man’s Royal British Legion.

It follows the death of Major Charles Wilson.

He served as a commandant and then Hon. Colonel of the Army Cadet Force and his work with the Royal British Legion culminated in his appointment as president.

As well as his work on the poppy appeal Major Wilson was instrumental in setting up the Armed Forces Day Committee and also campaigned to ensure TV licences remained free for over 75s.

Rushen MHK Juan Watterson – who is the president of the Port Erin branch – described him as a man of ‘great energy, enthusiasm and personal dedication’.

“He was also a founding force, along with Brigadier Butler of the Armed Forces Day Committee on the Island. He was also a fantastic support to me in establishing the role of Armed Forces Champion.” – Juan Watterson MHK

The Colby branch of the Royal British Legion said it was sad to hear of his death adding: “The committee would like to pass their deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”

The Onchan branch described his death as ‘very sad news’ and said Major Wilson was a ‘true gent’.

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Earlier this month it was confirmed the Island had, once again, won the Poppy Cup for the 43rd time as the area collecting the highest amount per person during the appeal.

In what's thought to be his final media interview - recorded on 12 August - he told Simon Richardson why the Isle of Man was so successful: