Soldier dies at base in Afghanistan

A British soldier died at a base in southern Afghanistan today.

The Ministry of Defence said the death of the serviceman, from 200 Signals Squadron, at a Nato patrol base in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province was not thought to be the result of hostile action.

The soldier's family have been informed.

Task Force Helmand spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie said the death was under investigation.

"Our heartfelt condolences are with his family and friends at this time of great sadness," he said.

It is understood that the soldier died from a gunshot wound and military investigators do not believe anyone else was involved in his death.

A total of 396 British troops have died since the start of operations in Afghanistan in October 2001.

PA