IT was a poignant and painful day – and also a day of immense pride.

The Elizabeth Cross – to honour those who have lost family on operations or during terrorist attacks – was presented for the first time to the widow of a soldier killed in Afghanistan.

Karen Upton received the medal on the day of the funeral of her “soulmate” husband.

Warrant Officer Sean Upton, who made his home in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, was killed by a bomb explosion in Helmand province last month.

Mrs Upton said: “I will wear this Elizabeth Cross in his honour with pride, and treasure it always.”

WO Upton’s funeral service came on the day the bodies of three soldiers, including two from the region, were brought home.

Hundreds of people lined the streets of Wootton Bassett, in Wiltshire, to honour Rifleman Daniel Wild, 19, from Easington Colliery, County Durham, Lance Bombardier Matthew Hatton, 23, from Haxby, near York, and Captain Mark Hale, 42, of Bournemouth.

It was also the day tributes were paid to three more fallen soldiers as the death toll in Afghanistan continues to mount.