The family of hero soldier Tom Wroe hope a special service will finally bring closure to their tragedy.

Mick and Claire Wroe and their daughter Demi are hoping for a big turnout for the memorial service for the Yorkshire Regiment trooper, shot dead on the Afghan frontline.

And former soldier Mick admitted this week’s inquest into the tragedy had helped bring that sense of closure nearer.

The inquest ruled that Pte Wroe, 18, of Meltham, and his comrade Sgt Gareth Thursby, 29, were unlawfully killed.

Both were serving in Helmand and both were shot at close range by an Afghan policeman who minutes earlier had been laughing and joking with the troops.

Mr Wroe – who spent more than 20 years in the former Duke of Wellington’s Regiment – said: “It was the verdict we expected.

“The big consolation to come out of the inquest was that Tom probably died instantly and did not suffer.

“He was shot four times from behind and never saw it coming.

“It was important to us to know that he did not suffer.

“But what remains is the mystery of why it happened. There was a good relationship with the Afghan people and this man was known to the troops, working in a camp just 500metres from their own.

“Tom had photos of himself with his arms around local kids in Army PR visits and also had pictures taken with the Afghan officers, swapping weapons.

“No-one will ever know why the policeman did what he did”.

The memorial service to Tom takes place on Sunday, September 15, at St Bartholomew’s Church, Meltham.

It was there that Tom’s funeral was held, prior to his burial in Helme village .

A memorial plaque will be unveiled by Demi – who will be 15 tomorrow – following a march through the village.

The service is for family and friends to say goodbye.

“It will bring things full circle and I am hoping there will be a good turnout for Tom”, said Mr Wroe.

The march will start at 2.15pm from the Carlile Institute in Huddersfield Road and the service will follow.