AN APPEAL has been launched to help pay the funeral costs of a Second World War veteran whose daughter is struggling to find the money.

Former school caretaker Thomas Lloyd, who served in the Royal Artillery for three years in World War Two, died on January 7 aged 87.

His only child, daughter Elizabeth Gallear - who is a widow - organised the funeral in order to “give him the send off he would have been proud of” but can’t afford to pay the £4,000 bill.

Ms Gallear said that she now has just 30 days to pay the bill for the funeral following receipt of the bill on February 7.

But without any financial support, she is struggling to find the cash, and has launched an appeal hoping for help in paying the costs.

Mr Lloyd, from Maesglas, Newport, served in the Royal Artillery for three years in World War Two.

After leaving the army he worked in several jobs, most recently as caretaker at Maesglas Primary school for around 10 years.

“He was a proper family man and a real gentleman,” said Mrs Gallear, 63, of Baldwin Street, Newport.

“He would do anything to help anyone, he was an absolutely incredible man.

“After the war he did various jobs and his latest before retiring was as a caretaker where he worked at Maesglas Primary for many years.

“He was well-liked and well-known by everyone in the community.”

Mr Lloyd met his wife Violet in Newport and the couple were married for nearly 50 years.

He cared for his wife until she died one week before their golden wedding anniversary, 24 years ago.

Despite his health deteriorating, Mr Lloyd remained at his home in James Street, Newport and was looked after by his family.

Mrs Gallear, who arranged the funeral, said she wanted to give him a send-off which would have made him proud.

“Unfortunately I am not able to get any help for funeral costs from the army as I am his child and not a widower or dependant,” she said.

“My mum passed away 14 years ago and I am an only child but I wanted to give him the send off he would have been proud of.”

Ms Gallear said she wished to thank everyone who has donated and offered support so far.

Visit the GoFundMe page to donate here.