FAMILY and friends of York soldier Ashley David Smith joined hundreds of people lining the streets of Wootton Bassett yesterday.

Trooper Smith was one of three soldiers to be flown home, alongside Corporal Taniela Rogoiruwai and Kingsman Ponipate Tagitaginimoce, both of 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.

All three were driven through the Wiltshire town where people lined the high street in silence to pay their respects.

Trooper Smith, 21, from Acomb was killed by an explosion on Friday as he cleared land by a checkpoint in Nahr-e Saraj district, Helmand province, becoming the 299th British soldier to be killed in the conflict.

He is the second York soldier to be killed in Afghanistan, after 23-year-old Haxby-born Lance Bombardier Matthew Hatton was killed in an explosion last August.

Fijian friends and family of Corporal Rogoiruwai and Kingsman Tagitaginimoce, both from Fiji, sang hymns as the cortege made its way to the war memorial.

The three servicemen were repatriated to RAF Lyneham followed by a private ceremony before being driven through Wootton Bassett en route to the coroner.

Speaking to The Press on Saturday, Trooper Smith’s mother, Sandra, said her son had wanted to serve his country, and his family were very proud of him.

Mrs Smith, 59, said: “He died to protect others and he was such a thoughtful and lovely boy.

“He wanted to serve his country and he was worried about going to Afghanistan – they all were, but they knew it was their duty.

“The Army was the making of him. He couldn’t even ride a bike before he went, but they taught him to drive.

“He absolutely loved it and we were glad to see him so happy.

“He just took it all in his stride.

“He gave his life to his country and we couldn’t be more proud of him.”


In memory of brave Ashley

FRIENDS and family of Trooper Smith paid tribute to him on The Press website’s book of condolence and a Facebook page set up in his memory.

Lorraine Laslie: “RIP Ashley. U definitely did us proud. Such a waste of life”

Vicky Love (was Burden): “Safe journey home young hero. You will always be in the thoughts and hearts of your family and friends.

Sleep Tight. xxx”

Laura Lee Patterson: “RIP Uncle Ashie, I will always love you and don’t worry I’ll look after granny and grandad 4 u and jamie and everyone. just on way to pick u up, and don’t worry about Sarah I’ll look after her I love u so much no harm can come to you now.”

Elishadews88, York: “You died fighting for our country, for that you deserve our upmost respect.

“You were a truly amazing person, loved by everyone.”