York remembers marine who was 'life and soul of the party' (Video)

David Hart, 23, from Poppleton, York, was killed in an explosion in Sangin in southern Afghanistan earlier this month.

The serviceman, from 40 Commando, was killed while on a joint foot patrol with Afghan soldiers.

Speaking outside the Minster, Marine Tim Sage from 45 Commando, who trained alongside the serviceman, paid tribute to his fallen colleague.

He said: "He was always smiling. I knew him through training. He was the guy who always made the cups of tea for everybody, which meant he was potentially last on every detail we got.

"He had a cheeky smile on him that everybody knew. That's what will be remembered today. He never had anything to moan about, he was the life and soul of the party."

"If you needed morale he was there," the Royal Marine added.

Hundreds of people ignored blustery showers as they gathered outside the cathedral for this afternoon's service.

Marine Hart's cap and belt were placed on top of the coffin, which was draped in the Union Flag.

Family vicar The Reverend Andrew Foster gave a reading, while the National Anthem was sung at the conclusion of the funeral.

Marine Hart passed out for duty as a Royal Marines Commando on October 16, 2009, when he was awarded the Commando Medal.

The award is given to a recruit who, throughout training, displays "qualities of the Commando Spirit".

His parents, Dilys and Chris, said he "showed the qualities of the Commando Spirit" and had "a great personality and was a friend to everyone".

After completing his training he was drafted to 40 Commando Royal Marines, based in Norton Fitzwarren, near Taunton.

Speaking shortly after his death, Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "He died a Marine, in the course of his duty, and while improving the lives of local nationals in Sangin.

"His bravery and sacrifice will not be forgotten. We will remember him."