Lance Corporal Jordan Bancroft

L/Cpl Jordan Bancroft was planning to marry and set up home with Lauren O'Hara following his return from duty in Afghanistan.

He was shot dead in Helmand province on August 21 while serving with the 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment. Hundreds gathered for his funeral service in his home town of Earby in Lancashire as he was buried with full military honours.

The 25-year-old went to Afghanistan in March as a Section Second in Command with 1 Platoon, Anzio Company.

His platoon was providing security in order for a meeting between coalition troops and local village elders.

Lance Cpl Bancroft joined the Army in September 2001 and served twice in Iraq before his posting to Afghanistan.

Around 380 people packed inside All Saints' Church to pay their respects while hundreds more watched on a big screen outside in the pouring rain.

Miss O'Hara told the service she first met Lance Cpl Bancroft in February 2008 and "knew instantly he was different to anyone I had ever met before".

She said: "Although I only had a fraction of time with him they are precious memories that I will treasure forever.

"He would say that we were two jigsaw pieces in a puzzle that fit together. I promised I will love him forever. I love you Jordan and am so proud of you."

In his eulogy, Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Kennedy, commanding officer of 4th Battalion, The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, said: "He died doing what he did best – leading his men and protecting others.

"He was the epitome of a leader. Calm under pressure, courageous, diligent, professional.

"He was a Lance Corporal who could always be trusted, a man who would always deliver."

"Lance Cpl Bancroft will be sorely missed by all the battalion, there are too few like him.

"Our regimental flags today fly half-mast for a true lion of England.

"As we lay him to rest, the world is a little less complete. We have all lost a friend and England has lost one of our lions."

The service was officiated by the Rev Hug Fielden, Vicar of Earby and Kelbrook and committal took place at Salterforth Cemetery.