THE respect and affection that his comrades held Matthew “Hatts” Hatton in are obvious from the tributes they have paid to him.

There are too many to publish, but here is a selection provided by the Ministry of Defence: • Gunner Lee Davies, Kajaki Fire Support Team (FST), said: “Lance Bombardier Hatton was a true soldier and very close friend. I knew Hatts for two years and it was the second year when we really got close, when we were in the same FST. These past 5 months will always stick with me, especially all the good laughs Matthew and I had. To all the Hatton family and friends, my heart goes out to you all. You will never be forgotten Big Man.”

• Gunner Toby Allen, Kajaki FST, said: “Hatts was such a great guy for the time I knew him. He lived for the Army; he always wanted to get into the action and do a bit of the fighting. Since being on tour and exercise with Hatts, he has taught me so much and made the Army better for me. I will never forget you Hatts; you were such a good friend and an awesome soldier. May you sleep in peace.”