A park in Garston has been dedicated to a soldier killed in Afghanistan.

Corporal Chris Harrison, 26, was killed by an improvised explosive device in Helmand Province in 2010.

Today friends, family members and former colleagues of the Garston solider gathered outside the Lea Farm Park, as it was dedicated to him.

His former commanding officer, who unveiled the sign along with Watford's elected mayor Dorothy Thornhill, said “it was really befitting of the man”.

Lt Colonel Mark Totten, who was in charge of Cpl Harrison in Afghanistan on the day he died, said: “Chris Harrison was a remarkable person.

“It is really befitting of the man that an area dedicated to play and coming together is one of the one of the ways we can remember him. He was someone who brought good humour, joy and companionship.

“It was clear that Chris was loved by everyone. Not only did he come from this wonderful loving community, he was the centre of morale for everyone at 40 Commando.

“He believed in what he was doing. He believed in his role as a leader and the most important factor about Chris was that he believed in supporting everyone. He believed in supporting his mates.

“It is not hyperbole for me to say that every day we remember Chris Harrison and the sacrifice he made.”

Children from Grove Academy were also present and laid a wreath in honour of Cpl Harrison.

Martin Harrison, Chris’ father said: “Dedicating this play-area to him is very fitting as he had many happy times coming here.

“He even managed to break his arm here.

“He loved his life as a marine. He had many close friends. He was happily married to Becky, who he lived with in Somerset for four years. He loved his family.

"We miss him terribly. But we were immensely proud of what a great man he became."

Born in Watford, the former Lea Farm School and Parmiter's School pupil joined the Royal Marines in 2003.

He qualified as a heavy weapons (mortars) specialist and then completed his first tour of Afghanistan in 2007.

Speaking after the event, Mr Harrison added: “I think it went brilliantly. Quite a few people who knew him as a kid came here and to have his friends here is incredible.

“We didn’t really expect it. We asked if one marine could be able to come, but the commanding officer of the 42 Commando said he wanted to come.”