THE identical twin brother of a soldier who died from a gunshot wound in Iraq has helped launch this year’s Field of Remembrance in the North-East.

Mike Wilson was at Saltwell Park in Gateshead today (Friday, October 31) in memory of his brother, Lance Corporal David Wilson, who died while serving with 9 Regiment Army Air Corp in 2008.

Mr Wilson, 32, from Staindrop, near Barnard Castle, County Durham, has worked as volunteer for the Royal British Legion since his brother’s death.

He said: “The Field of Remembrance provides important focal point in the North-East for everybody to remember our service personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice, our fallen.

“This year’s remembrance is made even more poignant as the conflict in Afghanistan draws to an end which left 453 families needing the support of the Royal British Legion (RBL).

“The help and support that the RBL provides to serving personnel and the families of our fallen does not just end when the wreathes are lain on Remembrance Sunday, they are there 365 days a year giving help and support wherever it is needed.”

L Cpl Wilson lived in Spennymoor and 11 weeks before he died, aged 27, his daughter, poignantly named Poppy, was born.

The Field of Remembrance is made up of hundreds of small wooden crosses with poppies attached and message from loved ones of fallen service men and women.

A dedication ceremony will take place tomorrow (Saturday, November 1) at 10.45am with a minute’s silence being observed at 11am.

It is the third year Saltwell Park has hosted the Field of Remembrance and it is the only event of its kind in the north of England.

Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Neil Weatherley, who represents Birtley, said: “Our region’s strong relationship with the armed services stretches back generations.

“It is the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War One and it is a huge privilege for Gateshead to host the Field of Remembrance and honour the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

“This is always a hugely emotional occasion. Being a part of this tribute means so much to so many people, particularly those who have lost loved ones.”

The Field of Remembrance will be open to the public from November 1 to November 14.