British Soldier Shot Dead In Afghanistan

A British soldier has been killed in Afghanistan's Helmand Province, the Ministry of Defence has confirmed.

The soldier was serving as part of Combined Force Nahr-e-Saraj (North), on a patrol to disrupt insurgents when he was killed as a result of small arms fire.

Task Force Helmand spokesman Major Ian Lawrence said: "Sadly, I must report that a soldier from 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards has died of a gunshot wound sustained while on patrol in the Nahr-e-Saraj district of Helmand Province.

"The thoughts and prayers of all in the task force and combined force are with his family and friends at this tragic time."

The MoD said the soldier's family has been informed.

The battalion deployed to Helmand as part of Operation Herrick 16 and is scheduled to return to Britain in the autumn.

The Army said Operation Herrick 16 was designed to "push back" the Taliban.

It said: "When we go into the villages and districts in Helmand we are supported by Afghan Army and Afghan Police who hold the ground we have cleared, to prevent the Taliban returning."

The Grenadier Guards previously deployed to Afghanistan in 2007 and during 2009 - 2010, and are playing a key ceremonial role during the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

:: A total of 410 members of UK forces have died since operations in Afghanistan began in October 2001.