British soldier killed in Afghan blast

A British soldier has been killed in an explosion in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said last night.

By Press Association Reporter

The death of the soldier from A Company 4 Rifles, serving as part of 3 Rifles Battle Group, takes the toll of British dead in Afghanistan to 250 since the start of the campaign.

The soldier died as a result of an explosion near Sangin, in central Helmand Province, this afternoon. Next of kin have been informed

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield, said: "It is my sad duty to inform you that a British soldier from A Company 4 Rifles, serving as part of 3 Rifles Battle Group, was killed by an explosion near Sangin in Helmand Province earlier today.

"He was on a foot patrol, part of a larger operation to provide security for the local population in Sangin, when the explosion happened. His courage and the sacrifice he has made will not be forgotten."

Next of kin have asked for a 24 hour period of grace before further details are released.