THE ceremony took place this evening to formally confirm the renaming of Aveley's byp[ass in honour of fallen soldier Lance Corporal Nicky Mason.

Members of 2 Parachure Regiment were among those who turned up for the unveiling of signs bearing the name of the Aveley man who gave his life during the Afghanistan confict.

L/Corp Mason died on active service in Afghanistan on 13 September 2008 when he was on peace-keeping duties.

His body was returned home and an emotional funeral service took place in the village. Since then, his father Dennis Mason has inspired and run a charity in Nicky's name and in March this year it was agreed that the local bypass be renamed in recognition of his service. The campagn to make that happen was led by then Aveley and Uplands councillor David van Day and supported by local priest Rev Alan Field.

Both Mr van Day and Rev Field were present today and played a prominent part in the renaming ceremony. Many other civic dignitaries were present including local ward councillors, council leader Cllr Rob Gledhill and Thurrock MP Jackie Doyle-Price.