The family of a teenage soldier suspected of taking his own life just days after escorting Queen Elizabeth II's coffin has called for the army to do more in looking after young recruits' mental health.
Trooper Jack Burnell-Williams, from South Wales, was just 18 when he was pronounced dead at Hyde Park Barracks in London less than two weeks after he walked in Her Majesty's funeral procession in September 2022.
Pictures from the day showed him in his ceremonial uniform escorting the monarch on her final journey.
The police said his death on September 28, 2022, was not suspicious, with the family of the teenager sure he took his own life, The Mail on Sunday reports.
Trooper Jack Burnell-Williams was pronounced dead on September 28, 2022 | FACEBOOK/LAURAWILLIAMSHis mother, Laura Williams, speaking through her lawyer, Victoria Sedgwick, called for the army to make changes to ensure better protection of young recruits.
Ms Sedgwick said: "My client's main priority is to fully understand what happened and, if appropriate, for changes to be made so that other families will not have to endure what she has been through."
Ministry of Defence figures show that from 2005 to 2024, there were 281 suicides among UK Armed Forces personnel.
At a review hearing at Inner West London Coroners' Court in December, assistant coroner Bernard Richmond KC said he expected a full inquest into the death of Trooper Burnell-Williams.
The young soldier was involved in escorting the late Queen's coffin
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The inquest is scheduled to take place next month.
The young soldier from the Bridgend area of South Wales was a member of the Blues and Royals, part of the Household Cavalry.
He guarded the late Queen's coffin and was featured in the official army film of the funeral, leading a black horse.
Those who worked with Trooper Burnell-Williams described him as an "endearing character".
The teenager guarded the late Queen's coffin in 2022
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Speaking at the time of his death, an army spokesman said: "It is with sadness that we can confirm the death of Trooper Jack Burnell-Williams on September 28, 2022, at Hyde Park Barracks.
"Our thoughts are with the soldier's family and friends at this difficult time, and we ask that their privacy is respected."
Sharing a picture and tribute on Facebook to her son, known as Jak by his family and friends, his mother wrote: "Never ever thought I would be saying this, but we as a family are all heartbroken with the sudden passing of our wonderful son Jak Williams."
On the day of the Queen's funeral, his father, Daniel Burnell, shared a video of troops from the Household Cavalry accompanying the flag-draped royal coffin.
Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022
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He wrote: "My son doing his duty for the Queen on her final journey.
"So proud of you Jak Williams xx very proud father xx."
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal and is seeking support can call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit samritans.org.
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