TRIBUTES have been paid to a soldier killed in Afghanistan shortly before last Christmas during a service to re-dedicate a village war memorial which now bears his name.

Captain Richard Holloway died on December 23 while he served in Afghanistan when he was hit by enemy fire while serving on operations east of Kabul with the Royal Engineers.

The 29-year-old's name was recently added to Hamsterley’s war memorial and a service was held on Saturday to re-dedicate it.

Hamsterley and South Bedburn Parish Council led the calls to have Capt Holloway’s name placed on the memorial.

Its chairwoman Jane Bee said: “We are taking this opportunity to draw the community together.

“This service is very important for the village and it allows us to remember Richard Holloway who gave his life for his country.”

Capt Holloway’s parents Jaquie and Neil plus brother Luke and girlfriend Sandy were present as were villagers, veterans and members of the Royal British Legion.

Canon Trevor Pitt, associate priest of the Escomb group, led the re-dedication service.

“He was well known to the whole village and his death affected most of the village and this service means a renewal of what the memorial means," he said.

Two buglers attended the service and a minutes silence was also held in memory of the war dead.

Lord Lieutenant of Durham, Sue Snowdon, was one of several people - including Capt Holloway’s family and Army representatives, to lay wreaths.

Ms Snowdon said: “It is my privilege to be here today at this very special dedication to honour Richard Holloway.

“He gave his life and he served his Queen and country with such bravery and distinction.”

A n Army spokesman said: “It’s a fantastic and fitting tribute. It is excellent that his name is on the memorial which will stand for the next generation to see.

“There has been a good turn-out and it is greatly appreciated by the Army.”

Brian Myers, president of the Willington and Crook branch of the Royal British Legion, said: “His death was a great loss to his family and to the community.

“He deserves to be remembered and it’s a fitting tribute.”