SOUTHEND came to a standstill as hundreds of people came together to pay their final respects to a beloved ex-military serviceman.

Bob Andrews, 78, who served 33 years in the Territorial Army, was honoured with a solemn military funeral yesterday.

The service took place at Southend Crematorium with an extraordinary display of military tradition and respect.

A motorcycle escort, led by an army officer, guided the funeral procession to the crematorium, where a military guard of honour stood ready to salute Bob one last time.

Sadness - Hundreds coming together in memory of Bob AndrewsSadness - Hundreds coming together in memory of Bob Andrews (Image: Simon Murdoch)

More than 200 mourners attended the service, including retired military servicemen adorned with their medals, a testament to the deep respect within the armed forces community.

Floral tributes and heartfelt messages further reflected the profound impact he had on those who knew him.

The service culminated in a poignant moment as a soldier performed “The Last Post” on a bugle, a hauntingly beautiful tribute as the curtain drew around Bob’s coffin.

His wife, Sandra Andrews, said: “Bob was loved by all his family and friends, especially me.

“He will be greatly missed.”

Incredible - Bob Andrews served an incredible 33 years in the Territorial Army Incredible - Bob Andrews served an incredible 33 years in the Territorial Army (Image: Simon Murdoch)

Bob was more than just a military man, after his service, he contributed to the aviation industry, working for companies including BT, Flightspares, Worldspan, and Aero Partners at Southend Airport.

Tragically, his life was cut short following an accident in October.

Photographer Simon Murdoch, who was a close neighbour of Bob’s, added: “Bob was a wonderful neighbour.

“Bob did 33 years military service with the TA Territorial Army.

I also remember him working at Southend Airport for a number of years as well.

Passing - In memory of Bob Andrews Passing - In memory of Bob Andrews (Image: Newsquest)

“It is a great shame.

“At the end of the service when the curtain was drawn around the coffin, a soldier played the last post on a bugle.

“There were around 200 people at the service, including retired military servicemen all proudly wearing their medals.”