A FAMILY has paid tribute to a former Bradford-born soldier known for his charity work.

Michael Gilmore, known as Mick, sadly passed away aged 56 on January 26 this year and his family recently held a celebration of life ceremony for him in Hereford, where he lived.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Mick Gilmore, who died in January, served in the RAF for 32 years.Mick Gilmore, who died in January, served in the RAF for 32 years. (Image: UGC)

Mick was in the Territorial Army for two years before joining the RAF Regiment in 1987, where he worked his way up the ranks and achieved his officer's commission.

His final military tour at the Royal Naval College Dartmouth saw him shaping future junior officers in the Royal Navy.

In his eulogy, his daughter Amy spoke about his 32 years of distinguished military service, saying: “Commencing his journey at the age of 20, he embarked on a remarkable career with the RAF Regiment, tasked with ensuring force protection for RAF bases, personnel and aircraft worldwide.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Mick Gilmore, who died in January, served in the RAF for 32 years.Mick Gilmore, who died in January, served in the RAF for 32 years. (Image: UGC)

“His pivotal role involved extensive operational service, encompassing front-line responsibilities in Iraq and Afghanistan, and eight tours of the Falklands.

“Mick's impactful contributions extended to applying lifesaving first aid in numerous casualty incidents, saving lives.

“Mick's multifaceted career and unwavering dedication to service will be remembered with deep respect.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Mick Gilmore, who died in January, served in the RAF for 32 years.Mick Gilmore, who died in January, served in the RAF for 32 years. (Image: UGC)

“Not only did he serve his country with honour, but he was also a cherished father. They stand immensely proud of the legacy he leaves behind.”

He earned a number of military honours before retiring from the RAF Regiment in 2019 where he then became a reserved firefighter in Bromyard.

Mick’s brother Martin Gilmore, from Bradford, also paid tribute speaking fondly of his brother’s caring heart and his younger life in Bradford.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Mick Gilmore with his siblings when they were children growing up in Bradford.Mick Gilmore with his siblings when they were children growing up in Bradford. (Image: UGC)

Martin said: “We spent our childhood living on the Buttershaw estate before moving to Low Moor for approximately three years, then finally settling in Allerton.

“My brother was a very giving person who would go out of his way to help others. This included a time when I needed a bone marrow donor for a transplant.

“He was quick on the ball and tested within 24 hours. He was devastated to find out he was only a 50 per cent match.

“I remember him saying that he wanted to be the one to save my life. They did eventually find me an unrelated donor.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Mick Gilmore with his children.Mick Gilmore with his children. (Image: UGC)

Mick also raised thousands of pounds for charitable causes.

In 2002, he undertook a challenging 200-mile march in 72 hours with colleagues from the 37 Squadron to raise money for the charity Hope for Homes.

In 2014, he appealed to Bradford Council staff and local residents to send Christmas gifts to troops serving in Afghanistan.

Mick has a son Matthew, daughters Amy and Hollie, grandson Jacob, siblings Martin, Leigh and Claire, mother Patricia (nee Platt) and his father was Frank Gilmore.