A "true gentleman" who dedicated more than 60 years of his life to Birkenhead Sea Cadets has passed away.

Lt (SCC) Peter Cowan RNR, according to colleagues "had such a positive impact on the lives of many cadets and volunteers during this time".

A tribute on the group's Facebook page read: "It is with much sadness to report the passing of our old friend and colleague Lt (SCC) Peter Cowan RNR.

"Always positive and with a can do attitude he believed in the benefit that Sea Cadets brought to the cadets and gave his time freely to TS Blackcap.

"Our thoughts are with his wife Sheilagh and his children Brian and Jacqueline and their families at this very sad time.

"Fair winds and one last Thank You Sir."

Among those paying tribute on Facebook was Charles Bratley, who wrote: "RIP Peter, one of the best, condolences to the family."

Liz Stephens commented: "Sad news, sincere condolences to Peter's family"

Sam McCormack reflected: "Always a kind man when I was a new cadet. Sad news. Sending love to his family."

Anita Orr wrote: "RIP and condolences to his family from Lt Orr and all at Bebington Unit.x"

Paying tribute, Brian Carribine wrote: "RIP a true gentleman. Condolences to the family x"

Connor Gee wrote: "Rip from T.S Onslow"

Linda Anderson commented: "I'm so sorry to here this lovely man. RIP Peter"

Sea Cadets Merseyside West posted: "Our condolences and thoughts are with you all"

Rob Powell wrote: "So sorry to hear this. He was a true gent and very much a cadets officer.

"The experience and knowledge he bestowed on the cadets is irreplaceable. RIP sir."

Dave Wynne put: "RIP Pete, from all at Bebington. You will be missed by all that knew you."

Mike Jackson: "RIP Sir. Stand easy."

Alan John Williams wrote: "Stand easy Lt Cowan. Thoughts with his family."

Rob Ingram added: "RIP Sir, from all at Cardiff Unit South Wales District (SW AREA)".