TWO lasting memorials to a popular Royal Artillery soldier, who died in Afghanistan, are taking shape.

Lieutenant Aaron Lewis, 26, a former employee at Virgin Active Clements Hall Leisure Centre, in Hawkwell, died last year while serving in the Gereshk area of Helmand Province.

The centre is proposing to rename its spin studio as a permanent memorial to Lt Lewis, who lived in Rectory Road, Rochford.

It will also be holding a fundraising fancy dress spinathon and an evening function at Churchills, Southend, the proceeds of which will be used to provide a war memorial at Royal Citadel, Plymouth.

The event will take place on Saturday, June 6, from 10am to 4pm.

Remy Le Fevre paid tribute to the former Westcliff High School pupil and said he was sorely missed by his colleagues.

He added: “Aaron was employed as a fitness professional at Clements Hall for several years prior to signing up with the Army in 2005 and was well known for his tough, no nonsense spin cycle classes.

“He passed out from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, in 2007 and was a lieutenant in the Royal Artillery 29th Regiment. His death was a tragic loss of a great individual.”

The spinathon will consist of six, 45-minute sessions, and people can either take part by donating a minimum of £5 per session or by collecting sponsorships.

The evening function at Churchills will be from 8pm to 2am and tickets are £6.

For further information on either fundraising event, contact Virgin Active Clements Hall Leisure Centre on 01702 207777.