Funeral Of Washington Soldier

30 January 2013, 06:41 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

The funeral of a Washington soldier, shot by a member of the Afghan National Army, is taking place today.

Sapper Richard Walker, who was serving with 28 Engineer Regiment, was killed when an Afghan soldier turned his weapon on him.

A service is being held for the 23 year old - who died just one month before his 24th birthday -  at Our Blessed Lady Immaculate Roman Catholic Church in Washington.

Sapper Walker, leaves behind a wife and 21-month-old daughter, Lilly-Faith.

His family said:
"Richard held two things close to his heart - his daughter and his colleagues in the Army.

A proud, patriotic man, he died doing a job he loved, supporting his friends."

His death brought the number of British military fatalities in Afghanistan since 2001 to 439 - and meant as many as 24 of our soldiers have been killed by inside attacks.