A LIVERPOOL soldier who died in Afghanistan was laid to rest as 1,000 mourners filled the city’s Anglican Cathedral.

Lance Corporal Peter Eustace, 25, of 2nd Battalion, The Rifles, was killed by an Improvised Explosive Device while on patrol in Helmand province on November 16.

Leading the mourners was his mother Carol, sister Kirsty, brother Ryan and girlfriend Aimi.

A moving tributes from Aimi was read out by L/Corp Eustace's parish priest, Canon Mark Stanford of St Philemon's, Toxteth.

It said: "I've nothing but happy memories of our time together, inseparable from the beginning never a crossed word between us, you were my missing piece.

“P you’re the love of my life and no one will ever compare to you. I miss you so much it hurts. Love you forever, all my love always, your girl, your Aims."

He also read out a tribute to the former painter and decorator on behalf of the whole family:

“At this sad time it is still very unreal, all the family still expect to hear Peter’s booming voice and see his huge frame bounce through the door.

“Peter was a gentle giant with a huge Scouse character, he was a daredevil and nothing stopped him achieving his goals.

“This was an attributing factor in Peter’s decision to join the army.

“He went on to become a big, brave courageous hero.

“Peter had a smile that could light up any room he walked into.

“This was brought home to us by all his fellow soldiers of every rank.

“Goodnight Peter may you rest in peace.

“Your dreams will live on throughout our lives. Love you millions.”

The Union Flag draped coffin of L/Cpl Eustace, on which was carefully placed his cap and belt, was carried into the vast nave of Liverpool Cathedral to Elgar’s Nimrod and was followed by a crowd so large it took more than 10 minutes for everyone to get inside.

He was remembered by Major Chris Lamb, who read out memorial statements from L/Cpl Eustace’s fellow soldiers and commanding officers.

He was “one of those men you can completely rely on when things get tough,” but also a source of “endless banter” and “blessed with a huge character”.

Outside the cathedral the crowd applauded L/Cpl Eustace as he made his final journey to the Allerton Cemetery for a private burial and the Last Post.