Last farewell to ex-soldier Matt Parkin: PICTURES

GRIEVING family and friends said a final farewell to tragic ex-soldier Matt Parkin today.

The 21-year-old dad-of-one was found dead in woods near his home in  Birchtree Road, Thorpe Hesley.

An inquest was opened and adjourned last week after the hearing was told that the cause of death was hanging.

Matt had been discharged by the army in January. He had spent six months  fighting in Afghanistan as a teenager.

Former Old Hall Comprehensive pupil Matt was described by his parents Ian and Janice as happy and popular before coming back from active service.

They also said he was a “brilliant dad” to 14-month-old daughter Mia.

The ardent Sheffield Wednesday fan’s coffin was adorned with blue-and-white flowers as it was carried into Grenoside Crematorium.