Wirral Coastal Walk 2011: Friends and family of Prenton soldier Steven Boote walking for Help for Heroes

Mar 2 2011 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

THE family of a Prenton soldier killed in Afghanistan are taking part in the Wirral Coastal Walk for the charity closest to his heart.

Corporal Steven Boote, 22, was a Territorial Army volunteer who put himself forward for duty in Helmand Province.

The Tesco security manager and former Woodchurch High pupil was one of five soldiers killed in November 2009 by a rogue Afghan policeman.

His parents Margaret and Tony have since dedicated themselves to fundraising for Help for Heroes – inspired by a letter from Steven urging them to continue his support for the armed forces charity.

So far the family have raised an incredible £19,500.

Margaret said: “He donated every month out of his TA money.

“It might have only been £10 or £20 sometimes but he gave them money regularly.

“He said to get involved and raise as much money as you can – and that’s why we’re doing it.

“In the letter he left us, he asked us to carry on the charity work that he’d done with them.

“Unfortunately my son wasn’t one of the ones who came back but if he had he may have needed their help.”

Margaret is planning a fun day for June and another fundraiser this Thursday will see her hairdresser at Square One on Borough Road cutting her hair – while blindfolded.

She said: “Everyone thinks I’m mad but it’s only hair – it’ll grow back!

“The soldiers who return injured are going through a lot of pain. They’re so brave – so what’s a bit of hair to me?”

Like many Wirralians, Steven regularly took part in the Coastal Walk as he grew up.