MARINE John Kendrick says he is desperately missing his wife, Amber and their two-year old daughter Lila – and is counting down the days until he gets to see them.

He is due to return home to Taunton next month for rest and recuperation and added: “All I want to do, when I get home for R and R, is hold my wife and give my daughter a great big kiss.

“That’s what I’m most looking forward to.”

Mrs Kendrick said she and her husband met at a night club on the Isle of Wight after he accidentally stepped on her foot.

She said John was a keen martial arts practitioner, studying Judo and Taekwondo, in which he has a black belt and used to teach a class.

The deputy head of All Saints School Betty Port has also praised Marine Kendrick’s bravery in Afghanistan.

She said: “John was an engaging young man who was always willing to be helpful.

“He was a kind lad who strove positively to overcome any obstacle in life and we’re delighted to congratulate him for what he has achieved.”