THE family of fallen soldier Georgie Sparks have thanked the people of Epping Forest for their love and support on the first anniversary of his death.

Royal Marine Georgie was 19 when he was killed as he tried to rescue fellow troops during a fire fight in Afghanistan in November last year.

A large collection of floral tributes and candles have been laid at the Epping War Memorial by family, former school pals and friends to mark the anniversary.

His father, Wayne Sparks, told the Guardian: “I'm just honoured to have known him and been his dad. At least we can known we've done something right in our lives when we made him.

“It's hard just to get up in the mornings – we just miss him so much. We still feel like he's coming home. Being one year on doesn't make a difference, we'll feel this way forever.”

He added: “He's a hero and a role model for all young people. There's a lot of people around who say what are they doing over there, but it's for our safety.

“But I would say the Government should do more to support them. We read in the Guardian about the soldier from Ongar being sent food parcels, and we had to do that too.”

His mother Toni said: “It would have been his 21st birthday next month, but to think he's not going to see it, you just can't describe it.

“To see all the tributes is amazing. We just want to thank everyone for their continued support, it means so much to us.”

His family have also praised a bench installed in tribute to Georgie at Debden Park High School in Loughton, where he was a pupil.

Georgie's sister Katie is to take part in a sponsored sky dive on Sunday, December 13, on what would have been his 21st birthday.

All money raised goes to soldier charity Help the Heroes.

Visit www.bmycharity.com/katiesparks for more information on how to sponsor her.