Shropshire marine 27-year-old Damian Davies, killed in Afghanistan by a teenage bomber, was a devoted family man and dedicated professional, his commanding officer said.

Colonel Andy Maynard, of the Commando Logistic Regiment, paid tribute to Mr Davies after his funeral in Telford on Christmas Eve.

Funeral of Shropshire marine Damian Davies

See also: Farewell to hero marine Damian

Up to 150 military colleagues paid their last respects to Mr Davies at St Georges Church and gave their support to his widow Joanne, who is pregnant with their second child.

Colonel Maynard said Mr Davies was a “total professional”, dediated to being a Royal Marine and above all devoted to his wife and 19-month-old son Matthew.

He said it was vital that people back home in Britain remembered those still serving in Afghanistan during Christmas and New Year for whom it was “business as usual”.

“The forces we are operating on the frontline are well led, well equipped and well trained. They are doing a fantastic job,” he said.

Meanwhile, another Royal Marine was shot dead in Afghanistan on Christmas Eve. He was due to be named today. 

The soldier from 42 Commando died from enemy fire while on a mission in the Nad-e-Ali district, near Lashkar Gah, in Helmand province. He was taking part in an operation to remove enemy forces from the north of the district. 

The Royal Marine is the 136th British serviceman to die in Afghanistan since the start of operations in October 2001.