Lance Corporal Scott Hetherington buried with full military honours

Date published: 26 January 2017

Hundreds turned out to honour Lance Corporal Scott Hetherington on Thursday (26 January) at his full military funeral at All Saints and Martyrs Church in Middleton.

Lance Corporal Hetherington, of the 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, died on Monday 2 January following an ‘incident’ in Taji, northwest of Baghdad, Iraq. The incident is ‘currently under investigation’ by the Ministry of Defence, although it is understood this was not as a result of enemy activity.

Aged just 22, he had recently become a father to a baby girl, Safaya Rose, with his partner, Savannah.

Lance Corporal Hetherington was a member of Blenheim Company and a Vehicle Commander in the Force Protection Platoon.

Soldiers from his unit acted as pall bearers and gave him a guard of honour. Soldiers attending the funeral wore their No.2 Service dress, while members of the public wore wear reds and blacks, the colours of the poppy.

The service was read by Reverend Canon Philip Miller. Ed Sheeran’s ‘Tenerife’ played as Scott’s coffin was carried into the church. This was followed by Psalm 23 and a Bible reading from the Letters of Paul to the Ephesians Chapter 6, verses 10-17.

Hymns, prayers and tributes were read before The Regimental Collect and the National Anthem.

He was buried at 2pm at Boarshaw Cemetery in Middleton ahead of a wake at Woodside Working Men’s Club.

Lance Corporal Hetherington’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Rob Singleton, said: "Lance Corporal Scott Hetherington was a superb soldier and a first class leader. Utterly professional and talented, he was full of character, fun and his enthusiasm was infectious.

"The Battalion has lost a huge talent and a real character. He will be missed dearly and we will never forget him. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers.”

James Postlethwaist said: “Today's the day we lay you to rest, still can't believe it. You certainly left a lasting mark on this planet. Was nothing but a pleasure to have worked with, promoted with and to have shared memories with.

“I'm proud to call you my mate: you will never be forgotten. Nec Aspera Terrent. R.I.P Scott Hetherington.”

Lynne Egerton commented: “R.I.P Scott, taken far too young. Thinking of your family and friends at this very sad time.”

John Hill said: “R.I.P Scott. Our thoughts and prayers for the family on this sad day.”

Brooklyn Forbes said: “Such a beautiful send off, Scott. May you finally rest in peace.”

Tyler Marie Boyle said: “Lovely send off, Scott. Thinking of all your family and Savannah [Scott’s partner] today.”

Dawn Kenyon commented: “Thinking of Savannah, baby Safaya and all of Scott’s family today. R.I.P Scott, Heaven’s gained a fine young angel in you. Sleep tight soldier.”