The widow of a Shropshire marine who was killed in Afghanistan has suffered a second heartbreak – losing the unborn baby she was carrying.

See also: Officer’s tribute to marine Damian

Joanne Davies, from Telford, says she believes the tragedy happened on the same weekend she was told husband Damian had been killed.

But she says she is comforted by the thought that the baby is now being cared for by her husband.

News of her latest loss came as the Rotary Club of Ironbridge announced it was launching an appeal for Joanne and her 20-month-old son Matthew.

A special bank account is being set up and people will be able to donate to the appeal.

Mr Davies, 27, was killed along with two other marines in Helmand Province five weeks ago.

A teenage suicide bomber is believed to have detonated the explosion which killed them.

Thrilled

Just before he died Damian had received an e-mail “bluey” from Joanne confirming she was pregnant.

“I had told him in a phone call that I suspected I was expecting and he was thrilled,” she said.

“When it was confirmed I sent an e-bluey which he must have had.

“His colleagues knew I was pregnant, so he must have told them after receiving it.”

But, after the devastating news Damian had been killed, Joanne began to fear for the baby’s health.

When her fears were confirmed she said: “The scans showed it probably happened that weekend.

“It is as if Damian didn’t want to leave me with any more pressure. I feel now Damian is holding our little one while I am looking after Matthew.”

She is now trying to come to terms with what has happened while staying with her parents in St Georges.

Joanne says the support and sympathy she has had from the community, from family and friends and from former colleagues has been a great help to her.

“It is lovely when people get in touch,” she said.

“Yes I am sad, but I am still me.

“The rotary club’s appeal is very touching.

“I am hoping it will be something to pass onto Matthew.”

Damian’s parents live in Wrockwardine Wood.

By Sue Austin