A HEROIC D-Day veteran who won the hearts of the people of Taunton after surviving a savage attack in his own home has died at the age of 101.

Jim Booth, who stayed fit well into his 90s by running and cycling, passed away this morning (Sunday, December 18).

Mr Booth, a Royal Navy veteran, played a key part in the success of the D-Day landings in the Second World War as a mini-submarine commander with the Combined Operations Pilotage and Reconnaissance Parties.

Once the conflict ended, Mr Booth later helped clear mines in the Mediterranean.

He then farmed in Devon for 30 years before retiring to Taunton, where he played the organ in several churches and at Taunton School.

One of the highlights of his life was dancing with The Duchess of Cornwall - now the Queen Consort Camilla - during the 70th anniversary commemorations of VJ Day, on August 15, 2015.

There was outrage across the country after great grandfather Mr Booth was left with multiple skull fractures and lacerations to his head, hands and arms following a cowardly attack on him in his home in November 2017.

Joseph Isaacs was found guilty of attempted murder and also admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent, aggravated burglary and seven counts of fraud.

Taunton Crown Court heard that Isaacs, who was jailed for 20 years, forced his way into Mr Booth's home, demanding money and subjecting the latter to a prolonged attack, repeatedly hitting his head and body with a claw hammer, and continuing the assault while his victim lay on the floor.

Gideon Amos, who is standing for the LibDems in the next Parliamentary election in Taunton, was a friend of Mr Booth's.

He said: "I was to hear at our church, where he played the organ, of the passing of Jim this morning aged 101.

"A hero of D-Day, what’s less well known is that Jim was also a Liberal to his core, an admirer of the progressive achievements of Liberals and Liberal Democrats in government and a friend of Liberal leader Jo Grimond. What a life.

"He remained a member of the LibDems with us here in Taunton and his support for me to become MP will always mean a lot.

"Rest in peace Sir."