Due to retire in 12 months, after 27 years’ service with the Royal Navy, C.P.O. Frederick B. G. Francis, of Rushden, died at sea last week.

His wife, who lives at 35, Roberts Street, received a telegram on Thursday which read: "Deeply regret to inform you of death of your husband in his sleep during the night of Wednesday, May 19th, due to natural causes. Letter follows."

C.P.O. Francis, who was 44, was last home 18 months ago. Since that time he had been to Japan, China and Borneo.

In a letter received by his wife on Wednesday he said he would be leaving Singapore for Hong Kong on the 16th.

A native of Rushden and the father of three sons, C.P.O. Francis was a member of the Rushden Town Band and Athletic Clubs.