This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It will not be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/uk/7598896.stm

The article has changed 5 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 0 Version 1
UK soldier killed in Afghanistan UK soldier killed in Afghanistan
(9 minutes later)
A British soldier has been killed in an explosion while on patrol in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said. A British soldier has been killed in an explosion while on a routine foot patrol in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said.
Next of kin have been informed. Brig Gen Richard Blanchette, International Security Assistance Force spokesman, offered his condolences to relatives. Next of kin have been informed. The soldier was from 1st Battalion, the Royal Irish Regiment.
He said: "This soldier died honourably, helping bring security to Afghanistan." Lt Col David Reynolds, spokesman for British Forces in Afghanistan, said: "This is a tragic loss."
The death brings the number of soldiers killed on operations in Afghanistan since 2001 to 117.The death brings the number of soldiers killed on operations in Afghanistan since 2001 to 117.
Explosion
The Ministry of Defence said the explosion, near Sangin district centre early on Thursday, was believed to have been from an improvised explosive device.
The soldier was given first aid but died later.
Lt Col Reynolds said: "Our thoughts and sympathies are with the friends and family at this most difficult time."
Brig Gen Richard Blanchette, International Security Assistance Force spokesman, offered his condolences to relatives.
He said: "This soldier died honourably, helping bring security to Afghanistan."
The soldier is expected to be named by the MoD on Friday.