EXCERPTS from the diary of Ferndown Marine John Thornton have helped inspire a unique musical memorial to the UK’s fallen heroes.

The tribute, entitled Eternal Voices, will form part of a special concert at Exeter Cathedral next month.

Poet Ben Kaye, based near Sturminster Newton, spoke to families of the fallen to produce the words to the 20-minute orchestral piece.

They included the family of Lieutenant Thornton, 22, who was killed by a roadside bomb while on duty in Afghanistan in 2008.

Mr Kaye said spending time with the bereaved families had been a “truly humbling experience”.

“To condense their horror, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger and, ultimately, their resilience and pride into a 20-minute work has been both an intense emotional journey and a Herculean challenge,” he said.

A particularly emotive line picked out from Lt Thornton’s diary refers to the “numbers game” of warfare.

“John was under no illusions and was very much aware of the situation he was heading into,” said Mr Kaye.

Sir Trevor McDonald will provide a narration to accompany the music, reading news headlines about the conflicts.

The newsreader said headlines “barely scratch the surface of the real effects on the lives of these young men and women”.

Lt Thornton’s family has been invited to Exeter for the performance on November 20.

Dad Pete said he was “absolutely fascinated” to hear the final result.

“It’s going to be quite an occasion,” he said.

“We hope it will really get across the memory of the lads who have been killed or injured, and the impact on their families.”

The music for Eternal Voices, produced by award-winning composer Adam Gorb, will be performed by the Royal Marines Band.

Mr Kaye’s words will be sung by the 80 -strong Exeter Festival Chorus.

The concert is being staged in aid of The Royal Marines Charitable Trust.

Colonel Nick Grace, director of music for the Royal Marines, said he wanted to create “a living memorial” to the fallen Marines, and one that could be appreciated by others.

Tickets for the Exeter Cathedral concert are available by ringing 01392 432309 or 01392 667080.