The family of a dad from Lancashire killed while fighting in Ukraine have described him as a 'real-life hero'. Simon Lingard, from Great Harwood, became the third Brit to be killed while fighting Russia when he died in an attack on Monday, his loved ones said.
The Foreign Office confirmed it is supporting the family of a British national who died in the war-torn country, LancsLive reports. Mr Lingard's family said the Ukrainian military has offered to bring him home to England.
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But the family have also set up a fundraising page asking for support to give him 'the greatest well-deserved send-off'. Writing on the GoFundMe page, they said: "As most people are aware my dad, Simon Lingard, (Grimmy) sadly lost his life in Ukraine on Monday, November 7.
"My dad was an inspiration to all who knew him, a real life hero who died fighting for what he believed in. He was loved and adored by so many, a true representation of what a soldier should be."
They described being 'absolutely heartbroken' at their loss. The message added: "The Ukrainian military have offered to bring him home to England but we need help to show him the respect and adoration he deserves by giving him THE greatest well deserved send-off.
"Could you all please find it in your heart to donate anything no matter how small so we can honour our dad and allow him to finally Rest in Peace."
A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We are supporting the family of a British national who has lost his life in Ukraine and we are in touch with the local authorities in connection with his death. Our thoughts are with their family at this difficult time."
In June, ex-British soldier Jordan Gatley was hailed a hero after being killed while fighting in Ukraine. Mr Gatley was shot dead in the city of Severodonetsk in eastern Ukraine.
He left the British Army in March and travelled to Ukraine to help forces there 'after careful consideration', his father said. Mr Gatley, who it is understood had served as a rifleman with the Edinburgh-based third battalion of The Rifles, was also praised by Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, who said he would always be remembered for his contribution.
You can donate to the fundraiser for Simon Lingard here.
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