The people of Chester have vowed to ensure a former soldier gets the fitting send-off he deserves.

G&M Goold Independent Funeral Directors issued an appeal for the public to pay their respects to Alan Richard Foster, also known as Alfie or Foz, who passed away at The Countess of Chester Hospital on Christmas Eve, aged 77.

Alfie, a Corporal with the 22nd Cheshire Regiment for 22 years, had few friends and family other than a brother who doesn't live close by.

Geoff Goold, from the funeral directors where Alfie is currently resting, said he hoped some of the soldier's old comrades and friends would be able to attend his farewell service at Blacon Crematorium on Tuesday, January 26.

There has since been a huge response to our original story about the appeal, published last week.

It was 'shared' more than 5,000 times on social media, and scores of people have promised to turn out for Alfie's send off.

Promises to salute an old comrade

Andy Dear said: "I fly back from the Middle East this week and will pay my respects to an old comrade. Rest in peace, sir. Your tour of duty is up, sleep tight."

Tony Humphreys added: "I'll be there to salute an old comrade and say goodbye."

Others have been remembering Alan fondly, sharing their memories on social media.

On Facebook, Graham Carine recalled that Alan was a painter and decorator in Garden Lane, working for a landlord who used to own flats around Chichester Street.

Graham said: "As a 16-year-old lad, he tried to teach me the art of putting wallpaper up. Never got the hang of it but he was still had patience trying to teach me!"

And Roger Moore, whose parents Derek and Edith were friends of Alfie's, said his mother recalls him being 'a great man who really enjoyed a laugh.'

Last year, hundreds of people responded to The Chronicle's call on Facebook to give an RAF veteran the send-off he deserved.

More than 200 mourners of all ages from the military and civilian community united to say a heartwarming farewell to 83-year-old Keith Ingham Nutbrown.

How you can say goodbye to Alfie

Alfie's funeral takes place at Chester Crematorium on Tuesday, January 26 at 10am. If you are unable to attend but would like to make a donation to the Mercian Regiment Benevolent Fund in Alfie's memory, cheques made out to this name can be sent c/o Cheshire Military Museum or c/o G&M Goold Independent Funeral Directors.