THE widow of a soldier killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq paid an emotional tribute to her hero husband at his funeral.

The funeral of Trooper Kristen Turton took place at St Mary's Church, Richmond, North Yorkshire, yesterday.

The soldier, from The Queen's Royal Lancers (QRL), part of 19 Light Brigade, died last month when his Scimitar armoured vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb while on patrol in the southern province of Maysan.

The 28-year-old lived at Catterick Garrison with his wife, Sharon. Mrs Turton yesterday described her husband as her "life, world and soul mate".

She said: "When Kris joined the Army and his regiment, The Queen's Royal Lancers, he became part of a larger family.

"This has been shown not only by the friendship shown to both of us during his life, but also through the infinite care and support shown at this time.

"He will always be remembered as a hero by all, but to those who knew him personally, he will be remembered as an amazing friend, a true comrade and someone who could be relied upon."

Trooper Turton's coffin arrived at the church draped in the regimental flag and surrounded by floral tributes.

One tribute of white chrysanthemums spelt the word "son".

An attached message said: "You are the sunshine of our lives. Our hearts are broken. We will love you forever."

A guard of honour was given by soldiers from the QRL.

Inside the packed church, Major Charlie Ball, of the QRL, said Trooper Turton had given selfless, courageous and outstanding service while in Iraq.

The church service included a bible reading and prayers.

The soldier will be interred today, in his family's home village, in Lincolnshire.

Trooper Turton joined The Queen's Royal Lancers in 2003. He trained as a sharp-shooter and specialised in demolition.

The bomb blast also claimed the life of Corporal Ben Leaning, 24, from Scunthorpe. Three others were wounded. Fifteen soldiers from 19 Light Brigade have been killed in Iraq since November.