The girlfriend of a Rainham soldier who died during a training exercise in 2010 is holding a masked ball for charity in his memory.

Craig Johnson died aged 23 after he was hit by a Land Rover in icy conditions during a training exercise in the Brecon Beacons.

He was preparing for his second tour of duty in Afghanistan with 1st Battalion The Rifles.

Inbetweeners star James Buckley said he was “heartbroken” by the death of his “comedy soulmate” after the accident.

The two were best friends from their time at Chafford School.

Girlfriend Nikki Perry, 31, said raising money for Help for Heroes has helped her come to terms with Craig’s death.

She said: “I still miss him, I still love him, I can’t stop it. This helps me because in my head it makes him proud.

“It sounds crazy but I know he’ll be watching over me.”

Nikki has organised the ball with Craig’s school friend Jamie Hanmore. It will include food and entertainment for 150 people in Collier Row.

All proceeds from ticket sales will go to injured soldiers charity Help for Heroes.

Nikki said: “I think the work they do is amazing. Without people raising this money soldiers wouldn’t get the help they need.

“I think they are true heroes and they need people like us for support.”

The ball will take place at the Forest Row Centre on Saturday June 30.

Tickets are �30, including a three-course meal, entertainment and an auction.

Call 07830481121 for information or email jhanmore@hotmail.co.uk