Westbourne Academy unveils mural for former pupil killed in action

The mural was organised by Westbourne Academy and the local council

A Suffolk school has unveiled a mural for a former pupil, who was killed while serving in Afghanistan.

Private Aaron McClure, 19, died in 2007 but has been immortalised in the mural at Westbourne Academy in Ipswich.

Pte McClure's mum, Lorraine, said it was a "very emotional but beautiful moment".

Assistant principle of the school, Andy Smith, said: "All of the poppies in this field will serve as a memory for anybody who's lost anybody in service."

The portrait chosen by artist Sketch was one of Lorraine McClure's favourites of her son, Aaron

The mural was created over four days by a graffiti artist who goes by the name of Sketch, and features a sea of poppies, the River Orwell and a portrait of Pte McClure.

In 2007, Pte McClure was sent to Helmand as part of the 7 Platoon B (Suffolk) Company who were engaged in fighting in Southern Afghanistan.

Pte McClure, Robert Foster and John Thrumble, both from Essex, died when a US F15 plane bombed them instead of a Taliban position.

The school previously honoured the soldier by naming the fitness suites after him.

Pte McClure's former PE teacher Danny Payne said: "Aaron was what you would call the epitome of a student.

"He'd always give you 100%. He'd run through a wall for you, do anything to support his friends. He was just an absolute star."

Friends, family, former teachers and local cadets all gathered for the mural's unveiling

Ms McClure said: "Knowing this is a lasting tribute now and I get to see it every day, it's wonderful."

She was able to add to the artwork, painting a few poppies near the centre of the piece.

"It was very nice to have that little part and to put my hand in it as well. He'd be proud."

A number of people turned out for the unveiling, including local cadets.

Mr Smith added: "It's rightly fitting that so many people have come out to celebrate Aaron's life and still remember him."