Fr Michael Dunne, Chaplain to the Forces in London and Chaplain of Westminster Cathedral, celebrated the requiem Mass of Patrick Azimkar at the Royal Military Chapel at the Wellington Barracks last Friday.

Azimkar, 21, was killed along with another soldier in an attack by republican dissidents at Massareene Barracks in Antrim, Northern Ireland, earlier in the month.

Azimkar, a member of 38 Engineer Regiment, had been preparing to be deployed to Afghanistan when the attack occurred.

Originally from London, he joined the Royal Engineers in 2005 and completed his basic recruit training and combat engineer course, before attending artisan training as a carpenter and joiner. He was an extremely talented footballer and had represented his squadron and the regiment. Prior to joining the army he had trials with Tottenham Hotspur.

In his homily at the Requiem Mass, Fr Dunne said, “We have come to honour Patrick, to praise him who in the face of evil laid down his life for his friends. In the goodness of God, Patrick will find his home where he awaits us, flourishing still, to welcome us in our turn.”

Lieutenant Colonel Roger Lewis, Commanding Officer 38 Engineer Regiment said Azimkar exemplified the characteristics of a "highly motivated" young soldier and described him as "dedicated, ambitious and full of energy"

"Always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done he never ceased to amaze me with his cheerful approach regardless of the conditions," he said.

"During training for our deployment to Afghanistan, Sapper Azimkar showed his true grit and determination, making absolutely certain that he was fully prepared for the exacting and demanding conditions to come.

"He couldn't wait to get to Helmand with the rest of his troop. It was his performance during this training, and in particular his commitment to supporting his mates, that showed his full potential for training as a non-commissioned officer.”