Leyland soldier, Stephen Wright, killed in Iraq during his first operational tour, is to be given a military funeral.

Gunner Stephen Wright, 20, who grew up in Balcarres Road, was one of two soldiers killed after being hit by a roadside bomb on Monday, September 4, near the town of Ad Dayr, north of Basra City.

Arrangements for his funeral are being made and his family have asked for a military funeral.

Stephen, who joined the Royal Artillery as a 16-year-old, was on a routine patrol when the incident occurred.

A family statement said: "Stephen's death has come as a massive shock to his family who are still grieving the death of his mother, Elaine, who died suddenly ten months ago.

"Stephen has since made his home, when on leave, with his grandparents Robert and Shirley Wright, of Leyland.

"Stephen was a quiet, happy, young man who enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his friends and family."

His father, Stephen Leigh, 45, added: "I'm proud of Stephen.

"He could have been doing something he didn't like, but he loved the army.

"He was serving Leyland, Lancashire and his country. He died doing what he loved."

The explosion hit Stephen's vehicle patrol as it was returning to base following a routine task training the Iraqi police.

Stephen, nicknamed Trigger by fellow soldiers, was set for a bright future and had been selected for a promotion course in Germany on his return.

An Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "Trigger was a well-respected member of the battery, where he was well known for his sense of humour.

"He was a quiet man but could always be relied upon to shine when times were hard and you least expected it.

"He had an infectious smile which kept the his colleagues in high spirits, both in training and on tour."

His commanding officer, Lt Col Jon Campbell, said: "Gunner Wright was a valued member of the regiment who was partway through his tour of duty doing what he wanted in life.

"When I last visited his battery, I was struck by his confidence, growing maturity, and belief in himself."

Special assemblies were taking place at Wellfield Business and Enterprise College, Yewlands Drive, Leyland, which Stephen attended after leaving Northbrook primary, Broadfield Drive, Leyland.

Headteacher Martin Ainsworth said: "We are very shocked and saddened that such a nice lad has lost his life but proud that he was doing something that he loved.