A COMMEMORATIVE bench has been unveiled to remember a fallen soldier who lost his life in Afghanistan 18 years ago.

On Friday at Prestonpans Royal British Legion, family members of Sergeant Jonathan Mathews, along with military officials, came together to reveal a bench donated by Ancre Somme Association (ASA).

Sergeant Mathews was killed in action in 2008 while serving with The Highlanders, 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment (4 SCOTS) in Afghanistan.

Shona Mathews, Sergeant Mathews' widow, has lived in Prestonpans since the death of her late husband in 2008 and has raised her two children, William and Meghan, in the town.

The couple met in Germany and, before Sergeant Mathews' death, the duo visited Shona's parents in Prestonpans; he grew very fond of the town, with Shona's dad brining him to the Royal British Legion for a pint when he was on leave.

Shona said: "I am pleased and grateful that my late husband has been remembered by the ASA.

"Prestonpans meant so much to Jonathan and the Legion have done an amazing job of remembering him after so many years."

The commemorative memorial bench was donated by Ancre Somme Association (Scotland).

The bench that was unveiled at Prestonpans Royal British Legion (Image: Supplied)

Harry Cartmill, chairman of ASA Scotland, said: "It is a great honour for all at the Ancre Somme Association (Scotland) to donate this memorial bench commemorating the life and the ultimate sacrifice paid by Sergeant Johnathan Mathews in service of our nation.

"His bravery will never be forgotten.

"We hope that when people sit on this bench and look into the life of Sgt Jonathan Mathews, that his dedicated service to our nation and the price he paid – leaving a void in the hearts of those who loved him – will inspire the next generation to realise freedom is never free."

Baillie William Buchanan, president of ASA Scotland, said: "Our armed forces are the bravest of the brave. Some have fantastic careers in the military, some are injured physically and mentally whilst serving.

"It breaks my heart when I read or hear about our brave military personnel that are killed whilst serving at home or abroad.

"Sergeant Jonathan Mathews paid the supreme sacrifice serving with the Royal Regiment of Scotland; he did his duty.

"We hope the local schools and community will learn about his life and never forget him.

"Remembrance is every day for the families left behind. The loss of a loved one, a husband, father, uncle, brother or a friend is heartbreaking."