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British soldier killed in Basra Iraq death soldier named by MoD
(about 4 hours later)
A British soldier has died after an attack on a base in Basra, southern Iraq, the Ministry of Defence has said. A British soldier who died after an attack on a base in southern Iraq has been named by the Ministry of Defence.
The soldier, from the 2nd Battalion Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, was killed when the site came under small arms fire on Monday. Kingsman Jamie Hancock, of the 2nd Battalion Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, came under small arms fire on Monday while on sentry duty in Basra City.
Defence Secretary Des Browne said he was "deeply saddened". The MoD said there were no other casualties. The 19-year-old, who lived near Wigan Lancashire, with his soldier brother, was deployed to Iraq on 21 October.
The number of British troops killed in operations in Iraq is now 121. Of these, 91 died after hostile action.The number of British troops killed in operations in Iraq is now 121. Of these, 91 died after hostile action.
The soldier's next of kin have been informed. On joining the army, Kingsman Hancock served as a rifleman involved in training to prepare other units for operations in Iraq.
Britain currently has 7,200 troops deployed in Iraq, most based around Basra. He volunteered for a six-month tour of the country as part of Catterick-based 19 Light Brigade, later amalgamated into The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment.
'Fearless spirit'
Kingsman Hancock's company commander, Major Chris Job, described him as an "energetic and enthusiastic individual who lived for the Army and had a very promising career ahead of him".
"His enthusiasm was boundless and the fearless spirit with which he lived was amply demonstrated by his decision to volunteer for this Iraq tour," he said.
"He was a magnet for his peers, who were drawn by his infectious sense of fun and all-embracing nature."
In a statement, Kingsman Hancock's family said: "We are deeply shocked at the loss of our much-loved son.
"We are and always will be very proud of him and all that he achieved."
The MoD said there were no other casualties after the incident, which took place around 1200 local time at the Old State Building, a coalition forces base in central Basra City.
Defence Secretary Des Browne said he was "deeply saddened" by the death.
Mr Browne said: "His family, friends and comrades as ever have my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.Mr Browne said: "His family, friends and comrades as ever have my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
"Our brave forces are striving to build a better future for the people of Iraq and this is a stark reminder to us all of the dangers they face there.""Our brave forces are striving to build a better future for the people of Iraq and this is a stark reminder to us all of the dangers they face there."