Lance Corporal Ivano Violino died on Monday

Lance Corporal Ivano Violino, 29, of the 20 Field Squadron, 36 Engineer Regiment, was part of a logistics convoy near Gereshk in Helmand.

Another soldier suffered injuries which are not thought to be life-threatening. Both were flown by helicopter to a medical facility at Camp Bastion.

L/Cpl Violino, from Salford, is the Kent-based regiment's first fatality.

He joined the Army in January 2002 and had previously served in Kuwait before being promoted to lance corporal in October 2004.

'Deeply shocked'

L/Cpl Violino, known as Sean, had been in Afghanistan since 2 September.

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Wardlaw, Commanding Officer 36 Engineer Regiment said he was "the very epitome of a modern professional soldier".

"Extremely fit, enthusiastic and exceptionally hard working, he drew respect and praise in equal measure," he said.

Major Gareth Baker, Officer Commanding 20 Field Squadron said L/Cpl Violino, who was an Army canoeist and represented the regiment at rugby, took pride in both his work and his sporting pursuits.

Sean will be sadly missed for his infectious enthusiasm for life Katey Violino

He said he regularly took on responsibilities beyond his rank, a fact that earned him early promotion to lance corporal and selection for promotion to corporal, he said.

Maj Baker added: "I cannot express how deeply shocked all of the squadron have been by this tragic loss so early in our deployment.

"Our only consolation is that it was typical of his character to volunteer for this mission, fully aware of the risks associated, and he was supporting the squadron effort in the best way he could.

He leaves a wife Katey and eight-year-old twins Ellie and Lewis from a previous marriage.

'Profoundly tragic'

His wife said: "Sean will be sadly missed for his infectious enthusiasm for life and his desire to be everyone's friend.

"He was popular with everyone he met and was loved by friends and family alike."

Seventy-nine UK troops have died in Afghanistan since 2001.

Of that total, 23 died from accidents, illness, or non-combat injuries, according to MoD figures.

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "The death of L/Cpl Violino is profoundly tragic. The Army has lost a highly professional soldier and his death is an immense blow to all who knew him."