Tributes have been paid to a former soldier who worked undercover for the Special Forces but struggled to readjust to civilian life and suffered from mental health problems.

David Mitchell died suddenly aged 41 at his home in Church Street, Oakworth, Keighley.

He shared the home with best friend and ex-army colleague Tommy Thompson.

Both men had served with the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

Mr Mitchell joined up in 1988 and served as a sniper in conflict zones, including Northern Ireland and Bosnia.

He also worked under-cover for Special Forces. He was commended for exemplary service.

He left the army in 2003 and had suffered mental health problems since.

“Some of the things he saw during his service affected him badly and stayed with him,” said his mum Katheen, of Braithwaite, Keighley.

Mr Thompson, 43, who had been friends with Mr Mitchell since their days at Holy Family School, Keighley, said: “The army made him and that was his life – he was the fittest and strongest of men and an outstanding soldier who led by example.”

A military-style funeral service was held at St Anne’s Church in Keighley.