CARMARTHEN has paid tribute to "an exceptional soldier" and "a true brother in arms" killed in action in Afghanistan.

The funeral of Bombardier Samuel Robinson, of 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, was held at noon in a packed St Mary's Church in the town's Union Street.

Sam was serving in support of Combined Force Sangin and died in an explosion while on foot patrol in the Sangin district of Helmand province on Thursday, July 8.

Known as "Robbo" to his colleagues — he was a former pupil of QE Cambria secondary school, and had worked at his father's business in Carmarthen, Just Print, before joining the Army in 1999.

The 31-year-old from Pentre Morgan, Bronwydd, was deployed on his fourth operational tour in Afghanistan - serving with the 5th Regiment Royal Artillery - at the time of his death.

In a statement, his parents Dennis and Alison Robinson said: "Our son was a brave, courageous and loyal young man.

"He touched the hearts of everyone he met with his kindness and compassion."

The Right Rev Thomas M Burns, Bishop of Menevia, led today's service, with the entrance to the church lined by military standard bearers who lowered the standards as a mark of respect.

As the coffin, draped with the Union flag and carried by Army bearers, was brought to the church, the heavens opened.

The Right Rev Burns paid tribute to Sam Robinson, adding: "We will remember the price that so many like Sam have paid.

"Today and many a day in the future we will continue to keep alive the Sams we have known."

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Hayhurst of 5th Regiment gave a regimental eulogy, saying: "He was the perfect role model for the rest of my company."

He read other comments which described him as "an exceptional soldier, a true brother in arms," and "the ultimate professional".

He later added: "He did what he did best, leading from the front.

"He showed exceptional example; very courageous and very robust. He would put anybody before himself; an absolute tragic loss."

Carmarthen mayor Alan Speake, who had presided over a minute's silence at the town council two days previously, said: "What can you say really? A very, very sad day for the town and particularly for the family and close friends.

"It's such a long way away but it brings it closer to home. It reminds people what war's all about - the suffering of the servicemen and their families."

Laugharne councillor, and former mayor, John Williams, a member of the Royal British Legion, said: "It certainly does bring things home, a very sad day for Carmarthenshire."

The funeral was followed by cremation at the Parc Gwyn Crematorium in Narberth.