The widow of a Malton-born soldier killed in Afghanistan has paid tribute to her “beautiful man, protector and love” in a funeral service at the chapel where they married.

Serjeant Phillip Scott, 30, of 3rd Battalion The Rifles, was killed by an improvised explosive device near Sangin, in Helmand province, on November 5.

Hundreds of mourners gathered at Aske Hall Chapel, near Richmond, where Serjeant Scott married his wife, Ellen, about a year ago.

A tribute by Mrs Scott, read out on her behalf, described her husband as a “strong, kind and gentle man” and said she would remember him always for his smile and “big laugh”.

She said Serjeant Scott was a family man who would “live on” in their two young children, Ellie, three, and one-year-old Mikey.

“I will keep them both safe, my love, they will always be told how wonderful and brave their daddy was,” she said.

“My life will never be the same without Phil, but better and stronger for knowing him.

“Rest in peace my beautiful man, my protector, my love.”

Serjeant Scott was brought up in Richmond and attended Richmond School. He is also believed to have lived for a time near Pocklington.

•The spelling of “Serjeant” is correct for the regiment.