FAMILY and friends of two soldiers who died in Afghanistan last summer gathered at St Mary’s Church on Monday as a plaque commemorating their lives was unveiled.

Private Thomas Sephton and Marine Steven Birdsall’s names were added to the cenotaph at the church as well as a memorial plaque on Honiton Square, Penketh.

Clr George Warburton, who stepped down as chairman of Penketh Parish Council this month, said: “There was a wonderful turnout from the whole community.

“I felt it was important to purchase a plaque after two boys were killed from our area and we spoke to the parents at the Remembrance Sunday service.”

Tom’s stepmum Kathy thanked Penketh Parish Council and said they had ‘done the boys proud’.

She added: “My son told me that the whole shopping parade stood still for the two minutes silence.

“A very poignant moment.

“I know that Tom would have been very proud and for me personally it was good to see the recognition of our soldiers who gave their lives for us in our community and a reminder every day for all the customers who frequent Honiton Way shops.”