‘Their sacrifice will not be forgotten’ - seven Norfolk-based soldiers who died in Afghanistan remembered at memorial service

Craftsman Anthony Lombardi from the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. (Image: Archant)

It comes after roads and a green open space on a recently completed housing development in the village were named after the men.

The families of L/Cpl Nigel Moffett, L/Cpl David Dennis, Trooper Christopher Whiteside, Trooper Phillip Lawrence, Craftsman Anthony Lombardi, L/Cpl Richard Brandon and Sgt Lee Davidson have been invited to the service.

It will be held at All Saints Church, Swanton Morley on Sunday, June 17 at 11.15am.

The service will be followed by the unveiling of a memorial lectern and seat at the new development.

Trooper Christopher Whiteside of The Light Dragoons. (Image: Archant)

The lectern will contain information about each of the soldiers who served with the Light Dragoons and attached members of the Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers.

Afterwards, the families can walk around the site for their own quiet reflection before having lunch at Robertson Barracks.

Roger Atterwill, Chairman of Swanton Morley Parish Council, said: 'It is important to us that the sacrifice made by these young men should not be forgotten and that future generations can see photographs of them and read their story.

'Some of the family members have contacted us directly to ask if it would be possible to plant spring bulbs under the sign pertaining to their relative which is a lovely thing to do and we will certainly do all we can to accommodate their wishes.

L/Cpl David Dennis, of the Light Dragoons based at Swanton Morley, who was killed in Afghanistan. For Ian Clarke.

'I would like to thank Breckland council for assistance with the practicalities of naming the roads and also Major (retired) Mel Tazey, Light Dragoons Regimental Secretary for his assistance in organising this event and liaising with the families.

'Although the Light Dragoons are no longer based in Swanton Morley the parish council feels this will be a lasting tribute from the village to the regiment and the seven individuals that died.'

The ownership of the open space at the new development, which children and families can enjoy for generations to come, will soon be transferred to the parish council, which will maintain it in perpetuity.

Sergeant Lee Paul Davidson from Doncaster, South Yorkshire of The Light Dragoons. (Image: Archant)

Trooper Phillip Lawrence. (Image: Archant)