Jamie Shadrake: Wrexham funeral for Afghanistan soldier

Guardsman Jamie Shadrake was shot by insurgents while on sentry duty in Helmand province

The funeral of a soldier shot dead while serving in Afghanistan has taken place in Wrexham on Thursday.

Guardsman Jamie Shadrake, 20, of 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, was killed by insurgents who attacked a checkpoint in Helmand province on 17 August.

He grew up in the Llanharan area of south Wales before moving to Wrexham.

The funeral service with full military honours took place at St Giles Church, Wrexham.

Guardsman Shadrake was shot during an attack in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province three days after his 20th birthday.

Capt Steve Munro read a statement in tribute to Guardsman Shadrake outside the church at Thursday's service.

"Jamie joined the Grenadier Guards as his older brother did and in a very short time he demonstrated his ability and potential," he said.

"Within the Recce platoon he was thoroughly professional and utterly dependable and was held in high regard by all.

"He epitomised the values and standards of the British Army and will be sorely missed by both his regiment and friends, but more importantly by his family who have lost and outstanding brother and son.

"Our thoughts and support now rest with his family during this tragic time."

'Lust for life'

At the time of his death, commanding officer Lt Col James Bowder described Guardsman Shadrake as "an extraordinary young man".

"Bright, committed and imbued with boundless energy, his enthusiasm and lust for life were infectious," he added.

Guardsman Shadrake's family said he was "proud to be a soldier and died doing a job that he loved".

In a statement at the time of his death they said they were "devastated by the loss of Jamie, who was such a loving son and brother".

"We are very proud of the fact that Jamie was prepared to do his duty in helping the people of Afghanistan," they added.