Tributes have been paid to a nightclubbing war veteran who enjoyed visiting Oldham nightspots into his 90s.

Popular Ernie Mayall has died aged 92 following a cancer battle.

The pensioner became a viral hit when he was pictured with younger clubbers at Liquid and Envy in Oldham, which he attended every Saturday night for about three years.

The club allowed him free entry and was told he could jump the queue.

On its Facebook page, the club said: “We would like to wish our sincere condolences for the sad loss of the beloved Ernie to his friends and family. He will be sadly missed by us all.

“We have only fond memories of Ernie having a boogie and enjoying life.

“From all the team at Liquid & Envy we thank you and rest in peace good sir.”

They added: “I’m sure there is a flashing dancefloor up there with your name on it.”

Mr Mayall, a father of seven, grandfather of 26 and great-grandfather of 57, died after melanoma, a type of skin cancer, spread to his liver.

After discovering the cancer had spread, Mr Mayall’s family and friends held a celebration of his life in September which raised £3,000 for The Christie.

Mr Mayall left school at 14, before joining the Navy aged 17.

As an able seaman, Mr Mayall served on landing crafts at Normandy and recently received the Legion d’Honneur from the French government in recognition of his bravery.

He married Charlotte in 1947, and after leaving the Navy he worked as a JCB driver.

After retiring Mr Mayall still remained fit and active and went swimming three times a week in his 80s.

His family said Mr Mayall started to go out in Oldham after the death of his wife in 2010.

Natalie Mayall, Mr Mayall’s granddaughter, said: “He is one of life’s true heroes, my beautiful amazing granddad. I can’t explain how hurt I feel.

“You can finally rest at piece with nanna, you’re not in any pain anymore. I love you with all my heart.

“You’re my hero granddad. Not just his achievement in the war, but as a person he’s everything you could ever want as a dad, granddad, great granddad, friend and a man.”

Clubbers at Liquid and Envy also paid tribute on Facebook.

Rhoda Smyth said: “Awww Ernie was amazing, could keep up with us all on the dance floor and always had a big smile.”

Danny Bolton added: “That man was a legend and an inspiration that no matter how old you are you’re never too old to have a good time.

“RIP to a great man, I hope the nightclub in the sky is ready for him.”

Mr Mayall’s funeral will be held at Holy Trinity Church in Waterhead at 1pm on Friday, November 25.