Hundreds gather to mourn murdered skydiver

Murdered army skydiver Stephen Hilder was described as “brave” and with a “zest for life”, as hundreds gathered to mourn him at his funeral today.

The Reverend Jimmy Morrison led a celebration of the 20-year-old officer cadet’s life at the Church of St Mary The Virgin in his home village of Burghill, near Hereford.

The church was packed with more than 300 of his relatives, friends and military colleagues.

Mr Hilder plunged 13,000ft to his death at Hibaldstow Airfield, north Lincolnshire, on July 4 after his main and reserve parachutes were sabotaged.

Reverend Morrison drew laughter from the congregation as he described Mr Hilder, whom he had known since he was a teenager, as “no mean humorist” and a prankster, but someone who also had a strong spiritual side.

The vicar added: “He had a zest for life.

“I saw him as first class officer material. He really was an excellent chap.

“I was quite convinced that he had ahead of him a very very fine career. There was no question in my mind at all.

“I could sense that blend of bravery and common sense which makes the good soldier.”