A GREENOCK grandfather who supported thousands of seafarers and helped generations of young people throughout the decades has passed away aged 81.

Michael O'Connor MBE was the backbone of Greenock & District Sea Cadet Corps and also helped hundreds of foreign sailors through the Stella Maris charity.

The father-of-three lost his battle with prostate cancer on Friday and he died surrounded by loved ones at his home, including his beloved wife Ellen.

As well as helping thousands of youngsters through the sea cadets, Michael could be found visiting ships as a member of the Legion of Mary on behalf of Apostleship of the Sea, or at mass at St Lawrence’s Church.

He leaves behind son Michael, his wife Denise and their children Michael, Kevin and Ewan, son Stephen, wife Lauren and their children Erin and Ryan, and son Brendan and his wife Claire.

Stephen says his father's passing is a big loss to their family and the wider community.

He told the Telegraph: "My dad had been fighting prostate cancer for a while, but fortunately he was never sick with it.

"He just kept getting on with things and never complained.

"He passed away at home which is what he wanted and we can take a small comfort in knowing he is now at peace."

Michael was born in Quarrier Street and brought up in Darndaff Road.

He set sail on a career at sea when he was just a teen and spent years travelling the world, visiting countries like Japan, America and Canada.

He referred to seafaring as his 'vocation' after it was offered to him as a lifeline during troubled times as a young man growing up.

Michael rose through the ranks in the Sea Cadets and his commitment was rewarded with an MBE in 1995.

Ten years ago he also received the Sea Cadet Medal, the highest accolade in the organisation's gift.

Stephen added: "We're so proud of our dad.

"The sea cadets was his life and we've got brilliant memories of our own involvement from growing up.

"We know he's helped thousands of people over the years and he is a great loss to not just us, but the wider community.

"We were lucky to have him."