Funeral of Royal Marine Luke Taylor to take place today

The 33-year-old from Burton was killed in Afghanistan in March and his funeral will take place at Christchurch Priory at midday.

The funeral cortege will enter the High Street at 11.30am and proceed at walking pace to the Priory to allow anyone wishing to pay their respects at the roadside, the opportunity to do so.

Yesterday Luke was remembered by friends from sports clubs.

He was a member of Bournemouth’s Zoom Triathlon Club, and Kelly Brocklehurst from the club said: “His ability to make friends and have people laughing made an indelible impression.

“He was quick with a smile no matter how hard the training session.

“We offer our heart-felt condolences to his wife and family and we are proud to have been associated with not just a fine triathlete but also a brave and dedicated serviceman.”

Luke was a full-back for Oakmeadians Rugby Club, based at Meyrick Park.

Head of marketing Nicola Wallace-Walton said: “You could call on him for any team – he just wanted to play and be part of the team.

“His friends said ‘he had a big heart and always had your back on and off the field’.

“He may have been one of the smallest players but he had the biggest heart and courage to match.

“His team members looked to him as a leader even if he was not captain on the day.

“Luke was full of fun, with an infectious smile, always up for a laugh and one of the lads.”

Luke had recently joined Dorset Rough Riders mountain biking club.

His wife Niki said he also enjoyed walking in the Purbecks and Bournemouth’s pier to pier swim. He completed The Beast, a gruelling multi-terrain run around The Purbecks, and the Weymouth half Ironman.

Niki said: “He did everything he could possibly do – he was always going for the extra bit of thrill.”

Our reporters and photographers have been invited to cover today's service funeral, and we'll be posting pictures as the cortege makes its way through the streets, so come back later for updates.