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Soldier comes home - by Kate Mason in Wootton Bassett
THOUSANDS of people have lined the streets to pay their respects to the first Doncaster serviceman to die in Afghanistan.
The body of Rifleman Liam Maughan was repatriated to RAF Lyneham in Wiltshire in a military ceremony today before crowds gathered on the streets of Wootton Bassett as the coffin carrying the 18-year-old was driven through the town.
Around 100 people from Doncaster, including Liam's parents Andrea and David, of Hatfield, his fiance Michaela Lindley and their son Jaden, as well as other relatives were present.
They were joined by friends and members of the Royal British Legion.
Liam's coffin, draped in a Union Jack, was driven through the town along with those of four other servicemen killed in Afghanistan.
The hearse carrying his body stopped in front of Liam's family to allow them to throw red roses over the vehicle.
Elected mayor Peter Davies has paid tribute to Liam who died while serving with 3rd Battalion The Rifles on Saturday.
He said: "I was deeply saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Liam Maughan on active service in Afghanistan and wish to send my heartfelt condolences to Mr and Mrs Maughan, his fiance and baby son.
"I am sure the people of Doncaster will all join me and my cabinet in this expression of sympathy.
"We acknowledge the supreme sacrifice he has made fighting for his country."
* See next week's Free Press for full reports from Wootten Bassett and more tributes.
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Weather for Doncaster
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 9 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
