David Marsh's name is to be added to the memorial in Thurgoland which includes the names of locals killed in action since World War I.

Parish councillors said one of two stone vases on the memorial should bear David's name, after being told all the sides of the memorial were full.

Now the parish council will advertise the proposal under the War Memorials Act 1923, inviting representations before September 1 when a final decision can be made. David, aged 23, of 40 Commando, was blown up while on patrol in southern Helmand Province in February.

He and his colleague Lt John Thornton, also 23, were treated at the scene before being taken to a field hospital, but died of their wounds.

One of David's childhood friends, Adam Oldham - who last week organised a road race through the village in his memory - said he was pleased with the decision.

Adam, 23, of Cote Lane, Thurgoland, said: "David will always be dearly missed but never forgotten. The inscription on the memorial ensures his memory will live on."

The inscription plan came after another old friend, Nicky Stacey, 22, approached the parish council's welfare committee.

Nicky, of Heights View, Thurgoland, said: "I think it would be a fitting tribute to him. David loved Thurgoland, he loved the Royal Marines, but most of all he loved his wife, daughter, family and friends."

David was killed after a year of marriage to Claire, and the couple had moved to Somerset with their one-year-old daughter Molly. His funeral in Bolsterstone in April was attended by 600 people.

As part of the consultation process, other names could be added to the memorial.

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