A memorial service was held in Walton-on-Hill on the weekend for Basra hero Major Paul Harding who was killed in Iraq in June 2007.

Family, friends and fellow serviceman packed St Peter’s Church on Sunday to honour the life of Major Harding, of 4th Battalion, The Rifles.

Also in attendance were MP Crispin Blunt and his wife, the mayor of Reigate and Banstead, councillor Richard Mantle and members of The Royal British Legion Banstead and District Branch.

The service was arranged by the vicar of St Peter’s, Margaret Marsh, and a warm tribute to Major Harding was given by a close friend, Major Baz Melia of 4 Rifles.

After the service in the church, the congregation moved outside to the War Memorial where the new plaque to Major Harding was dedicated by the Reverend Margaret Marsh, followed by The Last Post and Reveille, played by Rifleman Dean Johnson.

John Tween, of the Royal British Legion, said: “Paul was a local lad who as a youth sang in the choir at St Peter’s, He was very popular locally and took part in many local events including the local sports club.”

The 48-year-old, who lived in Winchester but grew up in Surrey, is survived by his wife and two sons.

Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Sanders, Commanding Officer 4th Battalion, said: "We have lost a close friend, an outstanding leader, an exemplary Rifleman and a remarkable and decent man. But we are not bowed or beaten by his loss. Instead we stand a little taller today than yesterday.

“The resilience, determination, professionalism, decency and compassion, pride, good humour and fighting spirit that I see in the eyes of this battalion, despite the losses we have suffered – these things are Paul's legacy.”

The after-service collection amounted to just under £500 which will be donated to Help The Heroes Fund at Headley Court.

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