AN EX-MEMBER of Brighton Boys’ Brigade has been remembered as the “ultimate volunteer”.

Derrick Aylward joined the 10th Brighton Brigade as a youngster and remained committed for life.

He became captain of the 23rd Brighton at Portslade Baptist Church where he had been baptised.

Derrick, who lived in Portslade, had a great rapport with everyone and brigade members have fond memories of camps at Ashburnham and Pevensey, Battalion Camps at Glynde.

He enjoyed Sunday evenings after church as the boys and girls brigade would have a games night.

After the 23rd, Derrick was still involved at the 25th Brighton and 1st Southwick companies.

He loved catching up at old boys’ reunions.

One card his family received from a friend summed Derrick up nicely.

It read: “His kindness and humour helped me with a fulfilling start in life throughout the Boys’ Brigade, for which I am so thankful for as even now in my career those teachings, fun and experience help me every day.”

Derrick started his own building company, Aylward and Partners, and carried out major construction work for contractors such as Longley.

He learned his trade as a carpenter at Southdown Buses, Pullman Car Co and Thomas Harrington coach builders.

Later, he downsized his work to general building, such as house extensions and loft conversions, often employing family and friends.

His sons Mark and James spent many school and college holidays labouring for him.

Derrick was born in September 15, 1934, in Hove. He was brother to Les, Ray, Johnny, Maureen and Keith.

He married Jill in 1958 and they celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in 2018.

They had three sons, Mark, Paul and James but Paul died aged ten.

Derrick loved being with his four grandchildren, Sam, Siân, Josh and Eli.

The family said he was a man with a great sense of humour who enjoyed helping people.

Derrick, who became a mason and was made worshipful master, was renowned for having time for everyone.

Son Mark said “serving others was his nature” and described him as the ultimate volunteer.

Derrick enjoyed sport and completed fun runs, half marathons and five marathons including London. He joined Hangleton Bowls Club where he was club champion five times. He loved the competition but more importantly the life-long friendships he made. Derrick, who fought myeloma for six years, died last month.