COMRADES joined hundreds of mourners today for the funeral of a soldier who was a father figure to younger recruits.

Corporal Steven Dunn, 27, of the 216 Parachute Regiment, was killed in Afghanistan four days before Christmas when his vehicle was blown up.

Speaking before the funeral in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, Brigadier Tim Watts said the popular married father was fit, competitive and a great soldier.

He added: "He was a real father figure to some of the younger soldiers."

Cpl Dunn, who had ten years service, was well-loved and respected by those with whom he served.

He was travelling in a Jackal armoured vehicle through the Bowri desert in Helmand when it was struck by a massive improvised explosive device.

Known as Dunny, he was a popular member of 216 Parachute Signal Squadron, Royal Corps of Signals and was serving as part of 2 Para Battle Group.

Brigadier Watts said: "This is what happens when you really need to get into the thick of the fighting.

"It's tragic and difficult, but we will stick together as a family."

His widow Cheryl wrote a note with her flowers, saying: "To my hero husband, the day you were taken from me, my heart was broken in two."

Their daughter Emily, six, wore her Newcastle United-loving father's black and white scarf for the service.

There were hundreds of mourners at the service at St Albans Catholic Church, Pelaw, including veterans with flags representing their organisations.

Local people came out of their homes to join mourners and pay their respects.

At the time of his death his family said: "He lived for the Army especially 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron and worked hard to get his wings of which he was very proud, it was his first love after Cheryl and Newcastle United.

"We are all immensely proud of all that he achieved in his short life. He died doing a job he loved and excelled at."