Soldier shot dead in Afghanistan

A British soldier has been killed in Afghanistan, it was announced today.

The soldier, who was serving with 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, operating with the Light Dragoons Battlegroup, was shot last night, the Ministry of Defence said.

Next of kin have been informed.

The death takes the toll of British military in Afghanistan since the start of operations there in October 2001 to 214.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said the soldier was killed as a result of a gunshot wound while on foot patrol in the Babaji District in central Helmand Province yesterday evening.

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel Nick Richardson, said: "This brave British soldier has paid the ultimate sacrifice and his memory will live with us forever.

"We all mourn his loss and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time."