MORE than 600 people have joined a Facebook page dedicated to the memory of Ashley David Smith and it has been inundated with emotional tributes.

It was set up by a friend who described the 21-year-old as “an amazing person, a great soldier and a brilliant friend” and “one of the kindest people I have ever met”.

Messages of sorrow and condolence began appearing on the site within hours of his death being announced.

Laura Jones, a former schoolmate of Trooper Smith at Hob Moor Junior School, said: “You are one in a million. Everyone is so proud of you.”

Jamie Chittock wrote: “Can’t believe you’re gone. You will be missed by all who knew you and you will never, ever be forgotten.”

Lyrissa Holmes-Griffiths said: “Only the good die young, and Ashley has proved this to be a very true saying.

“You are a true hero and will be missed by so many.”

Mark Ellwood described Trooper Smith as “a kind, cheerful and caring lad”, and Adele Coulson wrote: “You are one of the nicest lads I have ever known. Will never forget the good old days when we used to have so much fun. Going to miss your happy smile.”

The page has also seen a raft of tributes from people who did not know Trooper Smith as well as current and former members of the Regiment he was a member of.

One, Trevor Fairbrother, said: “It was an honour to work under the same cap badge as you.”

The messages can be viewed on the Facebook page ‘RIP Our Hero Ashley Smith’.