A VILLAGE came to a halt as residents paid their last respects to a soldier who died in Iraq only weeks after celebrating his daughter’s birth.

Lance Corporal David Wilson, 27, from Spennymoor, County Durham, died from a gunshot wound to the head at the Army’s Basra base on December 4.

His fiancee, Michelle Curry, gave birth to their first child, Poppy, 12 weeks ago.

More than 100 mourners attended his funeral at St Paul’s Church, in Witton Park, yesterday, where he was honoured with a full military ceremony.

Close family friend Elizabeth Hill read a tribute to L Cpl Wilson on behalf of his twin brother, Michael, in which he wrote: “David was my brother, drinking buddy, unofficial marriage guidance counsellor, but most of all he was my best mate.

“If the going got tough, we were there for each other.

“Although we were apart, we had that bond no one could describe, because I was the other half of him, and he was the other half of me.

“He was full of life. At the end of the day, all I can say is how proud I am of my brother, and he will be always be with us.”

Ms Hill, who has known the twins throughout their lives, also delivered her own moving tribute to L Cpl Wilson, saying: “You were so happy over the last few years with your soulmate Michelle; you were content with your little lot and beautiful daughter Poppy.

“We will continue to be there for your family, and continue to make memories together so your little girl will never forget her daddy.”

His friend and comrade, Staff Sergeant Tony Todd, paid tribute to L Cpl Wilson’s friendly grin and warm Northern accent.

He described L Cpl Wilson arriving in Iraq and proudly showing his fellow servicemen photographs of baby Poppy.

“You were like a breath of fresh air, and everyone quickly noticed you were so proud to be her dad.”

Staff Sgt Todd added: “I keep expecting him to walk through the door, shrug his shoulders and say ‘what’s all the fuss about’.”

Two Lynx helicopters flew past as Mr Wilson’s coffin was carried out of the church.

The Ministry of Defence said there was no evidence of enemy forces or anyone else at the base being involved in L Cpl Wilson’s death.

■ The Northern Echo attended the funeral by permission of his family.