Dead soldier in Afghanistan named

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A British soldier killed in a road accident in Afghanistan has been named by the Ministry of Defence.

Lance Corporal Jake Alderton died after the vehicle he was travelling in rolled off a bridge near the town of Sangin in Helmand province.

The 22-year-old from Bexley, London, served with 36 Engineer Regiment, based in Maidstone. His commanding officer called him a "committed" soldier.

Another soldier and an interpreter were injured in the crash.

The MoD said no enemy action was involved.

UK forces have held a presence in Sangin since June 2006.

L/Cpl Alderton was sent to Afghanistan in September, to provide engineering training and support to the Afghan National Army. He had been in the army for nearly six years.

He has touched so many people throughout his life in only good ways Family statement

The soldier's family and long-term girlfriend said he would be remembered with "sunshine and laughter".

In a statement, they said: "He was a beacon of light that brightened any room and cheered up anyone lucky enough to meet him.

"He inspired others and asked for nothing and always believed in doing the right thing. He has touched so many people throughout his life in only good ways."

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Wardlaw, the commanding officer of 36 Engineer Regiment, said: "His loss is sorely felt by all in the regiment and our thoughts and prayers at this time go to his family who he clearly loved and cherished dearly."

Des Browne, the defence secretary, said it was particularly poignant to lose a serviceman so close to Remembrance Sunday. He offered his condolences to the dead soldier's family and friends.

There are currently 7,700 UK troops serving in Afghanistan. Most are deployed in Helmand province in the south of the country.

L/Cpl Alderton's death brings the number of UK troops killed on operations in Afghanistan since 2001 to 83.