A man who dedicated his life to helping others and won a charity's highest cadet honour has died.

Roland Gillam, 71, who was known as Roly, gave 60 years' distinguished service as a volunteer with the Southwick division of St John Ambulance.

Mr Gillam joined Southwick ambulance cadet division in 1942 and was quickly promoted to cadet corporal and then sergeant, leading a team to win the national cadet first aid competition.

He also gained a Grand Prior's cadet badge, the highest award a cadet can achieve, before going on to become divisional officer at Portslade.

After completing National Service and taking a few years' break, he rejoined Southwick in 1974 and became divisional transport officer.

Ill-health forced Mr Gillam out of uniform in 1986 but he continued to serve St John as divisional treasurer and assistant county treasurer until his death. In 1982, he was made a Serving Brother of the Order of St John and in 1998 was promoted to Officer Brother.

Spokeswoman for St John, Ann Baker said: "He was a widely respected member who will be sadly missed."