Soldier from 2 Mercian killed in Afghanistan

A soldier from the county infantry regiment has been killed in a gunfight in Afghanistan.

The trooper from the 2nd Battalion, the Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) is the first to be killed on this new operational tour of duty in Helmand Province.

He was shot yesterday in Nahr-e Saraj district while on an operation to maintain freedom of movement for the local population.

His patrol came under attack from insurgents and during the attack, the soldier sustained a fatal gunshot wound.

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie, said: "The death of this brave soldier is a tragedy which has affected us all. His loss will be deeply felt by his family, friends and loved ones, and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time."

Next of kin have been informed and have asked for a period of grace before further details are released.