A perfect day for Pav

United in reflection . . . Andrea with son Lewis (left) and father-in-law Charlie Pavitt

Poignant ceremony as family plant tree in memory of soldier hero
SCORES of people honoured the memory of war hero Sgt Michael Pavitt - “Pav” - as an oak tree was planted for a man his widow described as an “angel”.

A lone piper accompanied the walk by Michael’s family and friends and service personnel, to the memorial spot chosen for the planting.

The poignant ceremony, held three years after the father-of-three died of cancer aged 46, saw his widow, Andrea and their three children Lewis (19), Leonie (17) and Charly (12) pay tribute to the husband and father.

Andrea, of Sherwood Way, High Crompton, told the gathering: “I hope you can all find time to come and sit here and reflect on the happy times you had with Pav.”

Following the planting, 11 standard flagbearers offered a salute.

Sgt Pavitt had served tours with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) and this month he would have celebrated his 50th birthday.

Following the ceremony a “Party for Pav” was held at Royton Cricket Club, from which money raised will go towards the cost of the ceremony and to the RME Benevolent Fund.