A HIGH ranking military officer, who encouraged hundreds of youngsters to join the army, has died.

Lieutenant Colonel Edward Ashley, who lived in Chipping, near Preston, died suddenly on Monday, December 31, aged 67.

A respected figure across the county, Col Ashley was commandant of the Lancashire Army Cadet Force, based at Fulwood Barracks, Preston, before his retirement in 1993.

His military career began in 1952 when he left Liverpool Collegiate School to join the regular army.

Two years later the young soldier, known to his friends as Ted, was commissioned into The King's Regiment where he remained for four years before transferring to The Parachute Regiment.

As his career progressed Col Ashley was selected to attend the Indian Staff College, for soldiers training for higher ranks.

He served in the Middle East and toured as a general staff officer (GSO) before finishing his regular army service as commandant with the Army School of Recruiting.

His service with the Lancashire Army Cadet Force began in 1988 when he accepted a position as deputy commandant before becoming commandant in 1990, serving until his retirement in 1993.

Executive officer of the Lancashire Army Cadet Force, Major Tony Wagstaff, said: "Following his retirement Col Ashley continued to show a keen interest in cadet matters serving on a number of cadet committees and he was a staunch and active member of our old comrades membership.

"He was extremely keen in the development of young people and was active in promoting the development of military and adventurous training activities. Many will remember his insistence on every cadet being able to point out to him the North Star."

He never married, but leaves a brother Rene, sister-in-law Trixie and four nieces and nephews.

His funeral service takes place today (Thursday) at St Bartholomew's Church, Chipping, ahead of a cremation at Preston Crematorium.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Lt Col Ashley's is to be held on a date to be announced.