Church is packed for farewell to guardsman blast victim

Lance Corporal Darren Hicks, from 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, was caught in an explosion while on foot patrol in the Babaji district of central Helmand province on February 11.

About 1,500 mourners, including servicemen, family and friends, overflowed Paul Parish Church, near Mousehole, Cornwall.

Among them were L/Cpl Hicks's widow Katie, his mother Janet Skinner and father David Hicks, for the service conducted by the Rev Tim Heaney.

Hymns included Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven and I Vow to Thee, My Country and a poem was read by his step-sister Amanda, entitled Farewell My Friend.

Company Commander Major Simon Carpenter said: "Lance Corporal Darren Hicks was one of life's truly genuine people, immensely liked by his seniors and subordinates.

"The gap in our ranks left by his untimely death is enormous.

"He will be forever missed and most fondly remembered."

The funeral procession then travelled along Penzance Promenade on its way to the crematorium for a private service.

At the time of his death, Mrs Hicks, from Mousehole, said he was a loving husband and father to their three-year-old son Henry and 10-month-old daughter Daisy.

"Darren was a proud Guardsman and he was taken doing the job he loved," she said.

"I am immensely proud of what Darren has achieved in such a short lifetime.

"Darren was the finest husband and father you could possibly ask for, and he was immensely caring. He loved to spend time with his family and friends."