AS the body of the 150th soldier to be killed in Iraq was borne the in solemn procession along Wootton Bassett High Street, residents of all ages stopped to pay their respects.

The body of 30-year-old Corporal Rodney Wilson, of 4th Battalion The Rifles, was flown back to RAF Lyneham yesterday afternoon.

Wootton Bassett Mayor Audrey Wannell joined members of the Royal British Legion and shoppers who lined up along the road as the hearse drove past.

Former soldiers saluted as their fallen colleague, whose coffin was draped in a Union flag, was taken home.

Cpl Wilson was killed as he rescued a wounded colleague during heavy fire on June 7.

His commanding officer, Lt Col Patrick Saunders, said it had been a supremely selfless and brave act.

Cpl Wilson leaves behind a fiancée as well as his family, friends and hs dog Missy.

Among those who turned out to pay their respects was former Rifles corporal Terry Ellison.

"These guys go out there and are dying for their country," said the 69-year-old, of Wootton Bassett.

"I think it is only right that we are here to show our appreciation of what they have sacrificed for us and to welcome them back.

"This one means a bit more to me as it is a soldier from my old regiment.

"I'm surprised by how many people have turned out, but it is nice to see how many people are paying their respects."

Rachel Moore had been shopping when she saw the crowd gathered near the war memorial.

"I think it is only right that we take a few moments to acknowledge everything this young man has given up for his country," said the 31-year-old.

"I think it's also really important for the children to see it and for them to learn about what is going on in a country that seems a long way away from our lives here in Wiltshire."

Coun Wannell said the number of people paying tribute to the soldier was lovely.

"We usually have a good crowd of people who turn out to honour the fallen and we have a phone network so people know when it is happening," she said.

"It is nice to know that people living in the area know how much it matters that we pay our respects.

"We can give half an hour of our lives to do this, the poor soldiers who are being repatriated don't have any more time."