UK soldier killed in Afghan blast

British troops out on patrol in Afghanistan

A British soldier has been killed in an explosion while on foot patrol in Helmand province, southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said.

He was from 1st Battalion The Grenadier Guards and died near Nad Ali District Centre in central Helmand on Monday.

Lt Col Nick Richardson, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, extended heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends.

The number of UK troops killed since the start of operations in Afghanistan in October 2001 has now reached 220.

Lt Col Richardson said: "It is with much sadness that I have to report the death of a courageous soldier in Helmand province.

"Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies go out to his bereaved family, to his friends and to the many comrades of this proud and brave Guards soldier."

Next of kin have been informed.

The latest fatality follows the death of 24-year-old senior Aircraftsman Marcin Wojtak, from 34 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment, on Thursday.

He was killed in a blast near Camp Bastion, also in Helmand province.

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