Service in Coventry for former British soldier killed in Ukraine

More than 100 people attended a memorial service at Coventry Cathedral for a former British soldier who died fighting in Ukraine.

Liam Love, who grew up in Coventry, joined Ukraine’s armed forces last year, following the Russian invasion in 2022, and died in October aged 24.

He had previously served with the Royal Anglian Regiment for four years and helped to train Ukrainian conscripts.

He was laid to rest following a funeral in Derrygonnelly in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, in November.

He had told his parents he was leaving the British Army in Christmas 2023, but it was only later they found out he planned to go to Ukraine.

In September, four months after arriving in the country, he was injured by shrapnel.

However, his father Michael Love previously said Liam was “adamant” his mission was not completed.

The next month, a soldier who had been fighting alongside Liam phoned to say he had been killed.

On Saturday, Mr Love said the family had “a real fear” that he would be killed.

He added: “I think Liam understood that, because he put all his life in order. He’d sorted out his will. Some of the hymns and songs we heard today he’d already organised with us.

“He believed in the cause and he believed that he could make a difference.”

Shaun Love said he was proud of his brother, adding there were “a lot of words to describe Liam… but I think selfless and loyal were probably the two standout ones”.

“Even if he didn’t want to do it, he would still find a way to do it,” he said. “Even if he couldn’t figure out how to do it, he would work to find a way.”

Mr Love said growing up with his brother “he was always a bit different”.

“As his confidence grew, our confidence in him grew as well, and he outshone all of us.”

Following Saturday’s service, the family were due to visit Coventry’s War Memorial Park to see a tree that has been planted for him.

As well as family and friends, some Ukrainians came to the cathedral.

Refugee Nataliya Korovina said: “I can’t imagine to lose a son… because my son is only three years younger than Liam was.

“I’m really impressed and proud of Liam and I think that he’s just a very good example for others to follow.”