A former Teignmouth Harbour Commissioner, believed to have been the first baby born after VE Day, has celebrated his 80th birthday.

Commodore Richard Lord CBE, the grandson of well-known Teignmouth fisherman and boatman Fred Sealey MBE, was born in what is now the front room of 5 The Strand on May 10 1945.

Although much of his childhood was spent in Northampton, Richard spent his school holidays in Teignmouth and he joined Fred Sealey’s Seine team when he was old enough.

He was known to have broken the thole pins on several occasions due to his over-exuberance.

Richard joined the Royal Navy in September 1961 and served for nearly 40 years. He advanced from apprentice to commodore attributing his success to the support of his wife, Denise, the discipline of early morning fishing, and living by his grandad Fred’s motto ‘don’t forget the morning’, meaning plan ahead.

After leaving the Navy in Mach 2001, Richard worked for a defence company.

Later, Richard served as Teignmouth Harbour Commissioner and he is still in touch with other board members continues to have a close interest in the harbour.

He now focuses on charity work and is a trustee of the Friends of Gibraltar. He is also chair of the ambassador’s team in support of Alabare, a homeless charity that helps support disadvantaged and vulnerable people, including veterans, tp rebuild their lives.

Richard celebrated his 80th birthday at his home in Somerset with his family including son, Andrew, and daughter, Hayley.

Attending the VE celebrations, Richard is acutely aware of those who gave so much and ensured that Richard and his family have had the opportunity to develop their lives as they wished.

‘There is an enormous debt that can never be repaid but we can help remember them,’ he said.