War veteran Allingham dies at 113

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He joined the Royal Naval Air Service in September 1915 before transferring to the RAF in April 1918 and serving at Ypres.

Mr Allingham spent his final years being cared for at St Dunstan's care home in Ovingdean, near Brighton, East Sussex.

Its chief executive Robert Leader said everybody there was saddened by Mr Allingham's death.

"He was very active right up to his final days, having recently celebrated his 113th birthday on HMS President surrounded by family," he said. "As well as possessing a great spirit of fun, he represented the last of a generation who gave a very great deal for us. Henry made many friends among the residents and staff at St Dunstan's. He was a great character and will be missed."

His funeral will take place later this month at St Nicholas' Church in Brighton.

Mr Allingham had five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, 14 great-great grandchildren and one great-great-great grandchild.

His friend, Dennis Goodwin, described him as one of an "extremely unique and special generation of people". He said: "Not only did they survive the most horrific war of humanity but they had a new life to begin afterwards in an era of depression, and they did it admirably. I'm one of the products of that generation and I think my generation and other generations afterwards should remember that; it's a legacy they should create and keep in their memories."

Tributes were also paid by Prime Minister Gordon Brown and spokesmen on behalf of the Queen and Prince Charles.

The Prince of Wales described Mr Allingham as "one of our nation's historic treasures" in a tribute by Charles contained in the war veteran's autobiography. A Clarence House spokesman said: "The Prince of Wales was sad to hear of the death of Henry Allingham. Henry belonged to that incredible generation who did so much for their country and we owe him a huge debt of gratitude for all he has done."